Fellow Travelers, a captivating adaptation of Thomas Mallon’s novel, has garnered significant attention for its skillful portrayal of LGBTQ+ history. This article explores the show’s compelling narrative, its talented cast, and, crucially, What Network Is Fellow Travelers On, providing a comprehensive overview for potential viewers.
The eight-part series is lauded for its sensitive and stylish production, featuring remarkable performances from the entire cast. Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey, as lovers Hawk Fuller and Tim Laughlin, deliver particularly memorable and intimate performances. The intensity of their love scenes, while raunchy at times, is essential to depicting the passion of their decades-long, on-again, off-again romance.
Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey in Fellow Travelers
The story begins in the 1950s, during the McCarthy era’s witch hunt, which targeted closeted homosexuals. Figures like Joel McCarthy, Roy Cohen, and J. Edgar Hoover created an environment of fear and misery, often leading to tragic consequences.
Hawkins Fuller (Hawk), a handsome Washington D.C. official, seeks brief sexual encounters in underground gay bars. He is adept at concealing his sexuality to advance his political career, even managing to deceive a lie detector test.
He encounters Timothy Laughlin, a young, eager Fordham graduate and devout Catholic, who is keen to join the crusade against Communism. Their passionate encounters lead to Tim’s first job in D.C. and his first love affair.
As pressure mounts in Washington, Hawk decides to marry Lucy Smith (Allison Williams), an eligible woman. They create the image of an ideal Washington marriage, complete with children, a luxurious lifestyle, and a country house. Hawk distances himself from Tim, returning only for occasional encounters.
Allison Williams as Lucy Smith in Fellow Travelers
The series moves back and forth in time, revealing the evolution of the lovers’ relationship. In 1986, San Francisco is ravaged by AIDS. Hawk, upon learning that Tim, now an activist and social worker, is ill, wants to be with him. Lucy, having discovered the truth about her husband, reluctantly gives her blessing.
Flashbacks to earlier years, such as 1968, show Tim as an anti-war protester who briefly considers joining the priesthood. While on the run from authorities, he reconnects with Hawk. In 1979, their passion is rekindled on Fire Island.
The emotional intensity of Fellow Travelers is reminiscent of the 1973 film, The Way We Were. Matt Bomer’s performance as Hawk is career-defining, and the series is a must-watch for mature audiences.
So, what network is Fellow Travelers on? The series premiered on Showtime and is also available for streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime. This accessibility allows viewers to experience this poignant story of love and survival amidst historical turmoil.
Promotional poster for Fellow Travelers
Each of the four directors – Uta Briesewitz, Destiny Ekaragha, James Kent, and Daniel Minahan – have skillfully brought Fellow Travelers to the screen. The show provides a moving portrayal of a complicated relationship set against the backdrop of significant historical events.
