These murders prompted the first extensive use of serial killer profiling and forensic fiber analysis.
Abby Mann was researching the TV film project when he came across a policeman, portrayed in the film by Morgan Freeman, who leaked evidence that he thought argued for the innocence of Wayne Williams, who was convicted of the crime. He used the information in the film, but refused to name the officer because he was still a rank-and-file member of the force.
Percy Rodriguez who plays Maynard Jackson, also narrated the opening trailer for CBS.
The mini-series cast includes two Oscar winners: Jason Robards and Morgan Freeman; and three Oscar nominees: Ruby Dee, Rip Torn, and James Earl Jones.