After ER wrapped up its stunning 15-season run, a brand new Canadian supernatural drama might take its place. Well, not exactly. There’s a difference – its titular character Toby Logan can listen to people’s thoughts.
The Listener stars Craig Olejnik as a 25-year-old paramedic who has a secret telepathic ability and uses it to help people in crisis. Only one person knows of Toby’s secret – long-time mentor and confidante Dr. Ray Mercer, played by Colm Feore. Joining The Listener is his energetic paramedic partner Oz, played by Ennis Esmer. Completing the cast are Detective Charlie Marks, played by Lisa Marcos and his E.R. doctor/ex-girlfriend Olivia Fawcett (Mylne Dinh-Robic), who both help Toby realize his gift can help others.
In tonight’s pilot, we learn that Toby was put up for adoption at an early age when his mother was driven mad by the same gift. Similarly bothered by the powers, he tried to live a relatively normal life as a Toronto-based paramedic, with the help of his mentor and best friend. True Blood‘s Sookie (Anna Paquin) comes to mind.
All these change one day, when he hears a woman call for help several blocks away. Turns out she was trapped in a burning car, and Toby and Oz manage to save her. Later on, we’ll find out that the woman saw something she wasn’t supposed to, and the men responsible have his son hostage to keep her quiet. Toby goes off to investigate without alerting the cops when he “overhears” some clues and sees some visions which may lead them to their target. The woman, for her part, is understandably distraught after being held at gunpoint, and is unable to help Toby, leaving him to his own devices.
Sounds fun? Sounds boring? You be the judge. Catch The Listener tonight 8pm on NBC.
– Glenn Diaz, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: NBC
(Image courtesy of NBC)
Staff Writer, BuddyTV
