Today, VICE TV released the trailer for Black Market with Michael K. Williams and announced that it will premiere its second season in January. Black Market explores the complex underworld of illicit trades and unravels how these criminal networks are reshaping our way of life. Offering an unflinching look into the lives of people operating in these illegal markets, host Michael K. Williams examines how these shadow economies have evolved since his journeys in the first season of the show.
The new season is an intimate portrait of the conditions from which black markets arise and the cultural reasons behind why they persist. Williams will give audiences unprecedented access into the new era of credit card scamming, how NYC’s secret world of boosting and flipping has reshaped mainstream fashion, black market body modifications and more. Through Williams’ uniquely raw and sincere approach to those he encounters, he ultimately seeks redemption for the individuals looking to thrive in a system that has failed them.
“Black Market is a testament to Michael K. Williams’ dedication to criminal justice reform and social justice” said Jesse Angelo, President, Global News and Entertainment, VICE Media Group. “Michael was a longtime friend of our VICE family and shared our belief in having all voices be heard- especially those in marginalized communities. Michael’s mission was to lift those voices up and we are honored to share this collection of new episodes.”
“While completing Black Market has been very difficult given the loss of Michael, it’s also been extremely rewarding to bring his vision for this season to the finish line” said Ben Freedman, Dion Sapp, Matthew Horowitz, David Laven and Matt Goldman, Executive Producers for Freedome Productions and Picture Farm. “Michael was a gifted storyteller, who poured his heart and soul into his work both on and off screen. Black Market serves as a bridge between them. Black Market was more than a TV show for Michael. It was a mirror to a life he lived. An everyday struggle to transcend life’s obstacles. That fight isn’t always pretty but his documentary storytelling is a testament to the brilliance of everyday people making their way in a complicated world. We’re incredibly proud to be able to share this work with you.”
Speaking of the first season, Micael K. Williams admitted, "Black Market definitely left an emotional void in me. I met so many bright spirits and so many broken people, so many people I wish I had the resources to help them on their quest. I struggled with that for a long while after we wrapped that show. I had no clue of what this world was,” he said. “I come from knowing my lines and the perfect scene, and none of those tools worked in the Black Market world. I had to let go of all of that and be Mike. Mike is not the most educated person in the world. When I let that go, that fear of looking ignorant in this world, I got to learn.”
A formal series announcement revealing further details about this upcoming season will be released in January. Black Market with Michael K. Williams will premiere its second season on January 10 on VICE.