Milo Ventimiglia has been cast as the lead in the upcoming cop drama pilot “American Blue” on HBO Max. The project has also secured David Ayer as the director.

The show follows Brian ‘Milk’ Milkovich, played by Ventimiglia, as he returns to his hometown of Joliet, Illinois to help the struggling police force while seeking redemption for himself. Milk is described as a determined leader looking for a second chance in the place he once left behind.

Ventimiglia is widely known for his role as Jack Pearson in the hit series “This Is Us.” He is represented by WME, Entertainment 360, Vision PR, and McKuin Frankel Whitehead. Ayer, known for directing films like “Suicide Squad” and “Fury,” is represented by WME and Sloane, Offer, Weber and Dern, LLP.

“American Blue” is a one-hour drama written by Jeremy Carver, with executive producers Brian Udovich and Neil Reynolds. Ventimiglia also serves as a co-executive producer, while Russ Cundiff is the producer. The show is produced by Warner Bros. Television, where Carver has an overall deal.

HBO Max’s head of original programming, Sarah Aubrey, expressed excitement about the series, stating that it will delve into the challenges of modern policing. She highlighted the goal of longer seasons to allow viewers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the show.

Clancy Collins White, president of creative affairs at Warner Bros. Television, also shared enthusiasm for Ventimiglia and Ayer joining the project. He praised their talents and expressed confidence in their ability to bring the character-driven drama to life.

The news of Ventimiglia and Ayer’s involvement in “American Blue” was first reported by Deadline.