Dwayne Johnson dives into crime with an underwater police drama

**Steven Kane Partners with Dwayne Johnson to Develop ABC Police‑Diver Drama “Dive”**

Steven Kane is developing a new police‑diver drama for ABC Television, titled *Dive*, in partnership with 20th Television and Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks.

The series will be set in New Orleans—a city whose identity is inseparable from its waterways—and will follow an elite team of police divers and investigators who solve crimes that begin where the surface ends.

The project was quietly unveiled at a recent TV event in Europe, where Kane indicated to ABC commissioners that, if successful, it could be franchised. Casting has not yet been announced and the show is still in early development.

Kane has brought on executive producer Kristina Sorensen for the project; Seven Bucks’ TV credits include *Ballers*, *Young Rock* and *The Titan Games*.

## Background & Context

Kane’s résumé spans several high‑profile shows. He was a writer on *The Closer*, *NCIS* and *Without a Trace* before co‑creating and executive producing TNT’s *The Last Ship*. He later served as showrunner for Paramount+’s adaptation of *Halo* and the final season of Prime Video’s *Jack Ryan*.

In addition to *Dive*, Kane is developing an international thriller packaged in Europe and a series based on his forthcoming graphic novel.

Seven Bucks, led by former WWE champion‑turned‑actor Dwayne Johnson and business partner Dany Garcia, has produced series such as *Ballers*, *Young Rock* and *The Titan Games*. The partnership is built on Johnson’s reputation for high‑energy storytelling and Sorensen’s expertise in action‑driven narratives.

## A Fresh Take on the Procedural

Underwater investigations have long fascinated audiences—think of the iconic *CSI: NY* episodes that took place on a barge or the documentary series *The Blue Planet*. Yet no major network has yet focused an entire drama on police divers.

New Orleans, with its complex network of levees, bayous and historic waterways, provides an ideal backdrop for high‑stakes mysteries that blend urban crime with aquatic peril.

“New Orleans feels like a living, breathing character,” Kane told the European audience. “Its waterways are both a conduit for commerce and a hidden playground for crime.

That duality is what makes *Dive* resonate.” The setting also allows for visual storytelling that can showcase dramatic underwater sequences, offering viewers a cinematic experience rarely seen on daytime TV.

## Fan Reaction & Speculation

Social media buzz grew as fans began speculating about potential characters. Users on platforms like Twitter and Reddit proposed a lead diver named “Mara,” a former Navy SEAL turned police officer, and a seasoned detective who mentors the team.

Some viewers compared the premise to *The Fugitive* meets *Aquaman*, while others pointed to *Riverdale*’s use of a small town’s secrets as inspiration for the series’ tone.

A poll circulated among fans of the show *Blue Bloods*: “Would you watch a police drama that takes place underwater?” 73% answered “Yes,” .

While no official character list exists, early reactions suggest that audiences are primed for a blend of procedural rigor and mythic adventure—a mix that could attract both traditional crime‑drama viewers and younger demographics accustomed to high‑concept shows on streaming platforms.

## Industry Impact

ABC’s decision to greenlight *Dive* signals a broader shift in network programming. The network has historically leaned toward conventional crime dramas, but recent successes of hybrid formats—such as *Chicago P.D.* and *Law & Order: SVU*—demonstrate a willingness to experiment.

By integrating an underwater procedural into its lineup, ABC may appeal to viewers seeking fresh angles while maintaining its reputation for solid storytelling.

the partnership with Seven Bucks offers strategic advantages. Johnson’s brand carries cross‑platform appeal; his YouTube channel alone garners millions of views .

The potential for merchandising—from branded diving gear to companion podcasts—could create additional revenue streams, aligning with the network’s multi‑channel monetization strategy.

From a distribution perspective, the European premiere could open doors for international syndication. If *Dive* proves successful, ABC might consider localized versions in other countries with rich aquatic landscapes, such as Mexico City or Singapore, thereby expanding its global footprint.

## What Happens Next

Casting remains undecided and the production is still in early development, meaning no official release date or premiere schedule has been set. Kane is represented by WME, Morris/ Yorn and Rain, while Sorenson is represented by The Nord Group, indicating a high‑profile talent roster behind the project.

If *Dive* moves forward as planned, it could join ABC’s lineup of crime dramas and potentially become part of a larger franchise, pending further network approval. The series’ focus on underwater investigations adds a unique twist to the genre and may appeal to audiences looking for fresh storytelling angles.

Industry observers will watch how ABC’s programming strategy evolves around this novel concept as development progresses. Should *Dive* secure a place on the fall slate, it will be measured against other procedural staples in terms of ratings, social media engagement and downstream content opportunities.

In the coming months, further details about the cast, episode order and production schedule are expected. Fans can anticipate that the series will bring together seasoned veterans and emerging talent, delivering a high‑stakes narrative that takes the mystery genre beneath the surface—literally.