An-Li Bogan Joins Emily Deschanel in Criminal Profiler Pilot at NBC

Variety

by Joseph Otterson

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

An-Li Bogan has joined Emily Deschanel in the highly anticipated NBC drama pilot, which is inspired by the real-life work of renowned criminology expert Dr. Ann Burgess. The untitled project follows Professor Georgia Ryan (played by Deschanel), a groundbreaking psychologist who revolutionizes criminology by shifting focus to victims rather than perpetrators to uncover hidden clues. Bogan will portray Natalie Washington, a character with hyperthymesia—a rare condition that allows her to remember every moment of her life with perfect clarity. This unique ability makes her an invaluable asset to the investigative team, as she can recall forgotten details and identify patterns others overlook. The pilot is written and executive-produced by Dean Georgaris and John Fox, with John Davis also serving as an executive producer through Davis Entertainment. Deschanel will produce in addition to starring in the series, while Burgess and Steve Constantine serve as consulting producers. Universal Television will handle production duties. The show aims to explore the innovative approach of profiling crimes through a victim-centric lens, offering a fresh perspective on criminal investigations. Bogan’s casting adds significant depth to the series, given her unique character traits and previous roles in films like *The American Society of Magical Negroes* and shorts such as *Let* and *Half Moon*. She has also appeared in TV shows including *Bull* and *Elementary* at CBS. With a strong creative team behind the project and a compelling premise, the pilot holds promise for becoming a standout series in the crime drama genre. This collaboration between Bogan and Deschanel highlights NBC’s ongoing efforts to develop fresh, unique content that resonates with audiences. The inclusion of hyperthymesia as a central character trait adds a layer of intrigue, making Natalie Washington a standout figure in the narrative. For fans of crime dramas and those interested in psychological profiling, this series promises to be a compelling watch. With strong writing, experienced producers, and talented actors, the pilot has the potential to make waves in the entertainment industry.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/20/2026