Starz’s Hightown has captivated audiences since its debut in 2020, blending gritty crime drama with deeply personal stories of redemption, addiction, and justice. Set in the picturesque yet dark underbelly of Provincetown, Massachusetts, the show follows Jackie Quiñones, a National Marine Fisheries officer battling her own demons while drawn into a murder investigation. While the storyline grips viewers, it’s the Hightown cast that truly brings this world to life.
From Monica Raymund’s powerful lead performance to the supporting cast’s layered portrayals, the ensemble has received critical acclaim for its authentic and nuanced acting. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Hightown cast, exploring their characters, backgrounds, and contributions to the show’s success.
The Main Cast of Hightown
Monica Raymund as Jackie Quiñones
Monica Raymund takes center stage as Jackie Quiñones, a hard-partying yet determined National Marine Fisheries officer who finds herself entangled in a murder investigation. Jackie’s struggles with sobriety and her quest for justice make her one of television’s most complex and relatable characters.
- Background: Raymund is best known for her role as Gabriela Dawson on NBC’s Chicago Fire. A graduate of Juilliard, she has a history of playing strong, dynamic women.
- Performance Highlights: Critics have praised Raymund for her raw and unflinching portrayal of Jackie’s addiction and her moral conflicts. She balances vulnerability with grit, making Jackie both flawed and heroic.
James Badge Dale as Det. Ray Abruzzo
James Badge Dale plays Ray Abruzzo, a hot-headed but effective Massachusetts State Trooper. Ray is driven by a relentless desire to clean up Cape Cod’s drug problem, but his personal issues often complicate his professional life.
- Background: Badge Dale has a solid filmography, with notable roles in The Departed, World War Z, and AMC’s Rubicon. His experience in crime dramas makes him a natural fit for the role.
- Performance Highlights: His portrayal of Ray is both charismatic and deeply flawed, embodying the classic anti-hero trope. The character’s on-again, off-again relationship with Jackie adds layers of tension to the storyline.
Riley Voelkel as Renee Segna
Riley Voelkel portrays Renee Segna, a nightclub dancer and the girlfriend of drug kingpin Frankie Cuevas Sr. Her character walks a fine line between loyalty and survival, making her one of the show’s most unpredictable figures.
- Background: Voelkel gained recognition for her role as Freya Mikaelson in The Originals and Legacies. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength shines in Hightown.
- Performance Highlights: Renee’s journey from a pawn in Frankie’s world to asserting her independence is a standout storyline, with Voelkel delivering an emotionally charged performance.
Supporting Cast and Their Impact
Atkins Estimond as Osito
Atkins Estimond plays Osito, Frankie Cuevas Sr.’s right-hand man. Despite his role as a drug enforcer, Osito’s layers are revealed throughout the series, showing a more human side to the stereotypical “bad guy.”
- Background: Estimond’s prior work includes roles in StartUp and The Resident.
- Performance Highlights: Critics and fans alike have lauded Estimond for adding depth and unpredictability to Osito, making him one of the series’ most intriguing characters.
Amaury Nolasco as Frankie Cuevas Sr.
Amaury Nolasco portrays Frankie Cuevas Sr., the cunning and ruthless drug kingpin controlling much of the drug trade in Cape Cod.
- Background: Nolasco is widely recognized for his role as Sucre in Prison Break. His experience playing morally ambiguous characters enhances his performance as Frankie.
- Performance Highlights: Nolasco’s portrayal strikes a balance between charm and menace, solidifying Frankie as a compelling villain.
What Makes the Hightown Cast Stand Out?
The Hightown cast excels in their ability to portray flawed, multifaceted characters who mirror real-world struggles. Addiction, corruption, and justice are central themes, and the actors deliver performances that feel authentic and emotionally resonant.
- Chemistry: The interplay between characters like Jackie and Ray, or Renee and Frankie, fuels much of the show’s tension and drama.
- Diversity: The cast’s diverse backgrounds reflect the multicultural setting of Provincetown and give the show a more inclusive feel.
Recurring and Guest Stars
In addition to the main cast, Hightown features an array of talented recurring and guest stars:
- Dohn Norwood as Alan Saintille: Ray’s loyal partner who often acts as the voice of reason.
- Tonya Glanz as Leslie Babcock: A fellow officer who develops a relationship with Jackie, adding complexity to Jackie’s personal life.
- Jona Xiao as Daisy: A pivotal character who helps drive key plot twists.
These supporting roles add depth and dimension to the series, ensuring every episode is packed with tension and emotion.
What’s Next for the Hightown Cast?
With its intense storylines and character-driven drama, Hightown continues to draw attention, and fans are eager to see what lies ahead. Many cast members have hinted at upcoming projects, both within and outside the show. Monica Raymund, in particular, has teased future ventures in directing and producing, while Riley Voelkel has expressed interest in exploring more complex characters.
Conclusion
The Hightown cast is one of the main reasons the show has resonated so deeply with viewers. Their ability to portray flawed, relatable characters against the backdrop of a crime-ridden Cape Cod keeps fans coming back for more.
Whether you’re a long-time viewer or new to the series, the performances of Monica Raymund, James Badge Dale, Riley Voelkel, and the rest of the ensemble are not to be missed. As Hightown continues to evolve, its talented cast remains at the heart of its success.
What do you think of the Hightown cast? Let us know in the comments or check out our other articles for more deep dives into your favorite shows.
