The Exonerated

The Exonerated is a powerful and poignant play that tells the real-life stories of individuals wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death in the United States. Written by Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen, the play combines the personal testimonies of those who were exonerated after spending years, sometimes decades, on death row for crimes they did not commit. Through their firsthand accounts, The Exonerated exposes the flaws within the criminal justice system, offering a deeply emotional exploration of the trauma, loss, and eventual triumph of those who fought for their freedom.

Premiering at Culture Project in 2002 under the direction of Allan Buchman, The Exonerated became a defining work in the realm of social justice theater. Its impact extended beyond the stage, sparking national conversations about the death penalty, wrongful convictions, and systemic injustice. The play ran for over a decade and was later adapted into a film, featuring a star-studded cast including Susan Sarandon, Danny Glover, and Brian Dennehy. Through its raw and moving storytelling, The Exonerated continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of fairness, accountability, and the fight for justice.