Get ready to dive back into the gritty world of Harry Bosch, because the iconic detective’s story is far from over! MGM+ has just greenlit a prequel series, Bosch: Start of Watch, and it’s set to shake up everything you thought you knew about the LAPD’s most relentless investigator. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just another spin-off—it’s a deep dive into the origins of Bosch himself, starring Cameron Monaghan (Shameless, Gotham) as the young detective and Omari Hardwick (Power) in a pivotal role. And this is the part most people miss: the series is set in 1991, a time when Los Angeles was a powder keg of racial tension, gang violence, and a fractured police force. How did Bosch become the man who lives by the code, ‘Everybody counts or nobody counts’? This prequel promises to answer that question—and more.
Bosch: Start of Watch will be the fourth installment in the ever-expanding Bosch-verse, joining Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, and the recently renewed spin-off Ballard. Franchise veterans Tom Bernardo and Brian Anthony are at the helm, co-creating and executive producing the series, with Bernardo stepping into the showrunner role. Filming is set to take place in Los Angeles, ensuring the show stays true to its roots. Fabel Entertainment, the powerhouse behind the franchise, is producing, alongside Michael Connelly (the mastermind behind the best-selling novels), Henrik Bastin, Jamie Boscardin Martin, Jasmine Russ, and Theresa Snider of Hieronymus Pictures.
MGM+ head Michael Wright couldn’t contain his excitement: ‘We are thrilled to expand the Bosch universe with this compelling origin story that showcases how one of television’s most beloved detectives became the man we know today. With Cameron Monaghan and Omari Hardwick bringing these complex characters to life, and the creative vision of Michael Connelly and our talented executive producers, Bosch: Start of Watch promises to deliver the gritty, authentic storytelling that honors the franchise’s legacy while opening an exciting new chapter.’
But here’s where it gets controversial: the series will explore a city on the brink of chaos, where Bosch, then a 26-year-old LAPD rookie, is mentored by training officer Eli Bridges (played by Hardwick). Amid routine calls and growing unrest, Bosch gets entangled in a high-profile heist and a web of criminal corruption that tests his loyalty to the badge. Will this prequel challenge our perception of Bosch’s moral compass? Or will it reinforce why he became the detective we’ve come to admire? That’s the question fans—and newcomers—will be debating.
Michael Connelly himself shared his enthusiasm: ‘I’m deeply grateful to Michael Wright and the team at MGM+ for championing this next chapter in Bosch’s journey with such remarkable care and integrity. Being able to see how Harry Bosch became the man we have loved for 10 seasons is a gift to me and his many fans. I can’t wait to dig in with Cameron and the writers to explore this uncharted character territory.’
So, what do you think? Is Bosch: Start of Watch a welcome addition to the franchise, or are you skeptical about revisiting Bosch’s past? Let’s hear it in the comments—because when it comes to Harry Bosch, every opinion counts.
