Spike Scores Weinstein Series ‘Waco’

Spike has teamed with Weinstein Television to distribute limited scripted series Waco, the network said Wednesday.

The six-part series will star Michael Shannon and Taylor Kitsch and is based on the 1993 FBI siege of a religious sect in Waco, Tx  that resulted in the deadly shoot out and fire, said the network.

John Erick Dowdle and Drew Dowdle will write the series, with John Erik also directing the series, which will go into production next Spring.

“The dramatic events in Waco captivated the nation, and we are thrilled to partner with Weinstein Television and an all-star cast and production team to bring this incredible story to life,” said Sharon Levy, Executive Vice President, Original Series, Spike in a statement.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.