Plot Synopsis

Credited as the show that made politics sexy, THE WEST WING takes viewers behind the scenes of the White House where young, quick-witted idealists struggle to communicate their dreams, fend off the opposition, and lead the free world -- all while trying to run a country. This record-breaking Emmy-winner features an ensemble cast of characters who make up the senior staff of the fictional Bartlett and Santos administrations. Among the most notable are White House Chief of Staff Leo McGarry; his deputy, Josh Lyman; Director of Communications Toby Ziegler; his second, Sam Seaborne; and Press Secretary C.J. Craig.
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For the first time in 17 years, the original cast of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning hit Warner Bros. Television drama series comes together with WEST WING creator Aaron Sorkin and executive producer/director Thomas Schlamme for "A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote," which debuted on HBO Max on Thursday, October 15, 2020. "A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote" features a special theatrical stage presentation of the "Hartsfield's Landing" episode from the show's third season. The creative team and cast organized this historic production in order to raise awareness for and support the vital mission of When We All Vote, a non-profit, nonpartisan organization co-chaired by Michelle Obama which was founded to increase participation in every election in America. In honor of the special, WarnerMedia will make a donation to When We All Vote. Entertainment Weekly revealed a cover story today featuring THE WEST WING cast standing alongside Sorkin as they unite to get out the vote.

"A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote" was shot over multiple days at the iconic Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles in early October. THE WEST WING stars Rob Lowe, Dule Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, Bradley Whitford, and Martin Sheen reprise their roles from the episode. Plus, Sterling K. Brown plays Leo. In addition to the participation of the original series cast members, "A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote" also features special guest appearances, including a special message from When We All Vote co-chair Michelle Obama, President Bill Clinton, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Elisabeth Moss, Samuel L. Jackson, and more.

The unique stage production connects Sorkin with his roots in the theatre as the playwright of acclaimed productions A Few Good Men, The Farnsworth Invention and To Kill a Mockingbird. Sorkin will write original exclusive material for "A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote," and Schlamme will serve as director of the production.

Aaron Sorkin said: "Tommy and I are incredibly excited to be getting THE WEST WING cast back together for this staged reading and to support When We All Vote in their efforts to get all of us involved in this election."

"With A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote, we are excited to revisit this legendary series and offer our passionate fans something that is substantial, meaningful and unforgettable, while also promoting an important message for our time," said Sarah Aubrey, head of original content, HBO Max. "Combined with WarnerMedia's donation to When We All Vote, this special not only entertains, but also help ensure the organization can carry forth its mission to increase voter participation in every election."