HBO's 'We Own This City' Miniseries Highlights Wunmi Mosaku's Powerful Performance

Mosaku's nuanced portrayal of a civil rights attorney fighting corruption in the Baltimore Police Department is a standout in the gritty drama.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Ryan Coogler's acclaimed miniseries Sinners featured an impactful performance from actress Wunmi Mosaku, which was influenced by her work in the HBO drama We Own This City. The miniseries, based on the nonfiction book by Justin Fenton, explores a corruption scandal within the Baltimore Police Department's Gun Trace Task Force. Mosaku plays attorney Nicole Steele, who tries to hold the department accountable despite facing resistance from law enforcement.

Why it matters

We Own This City provides a realistic and unflinching look at the fraught relationship between the Baltimore police, city officials, and civil rights advocates. Mosaku's performance as Steele highlights the emotional toll of fighting against institutional racism and corruption, and how difficult it can be to enact meaningful change within the legal system.

The details

As an attorney trying to settle a dispute involving the police department, Steele uncovers the extent of the Task Force's abuses of power and racial targeting. Mosaku's nuanced portrayal of Steele's resilience in the face of pressure and resistance from law enforcement is a key part of her acclaimed performance in Sinners.

  • We Own This City premiered on HBO Max in 2022.
  • Mosaku's role in Sinners, which was influenced by her work in We Own This City, earned her an Oscar nomination in 2026.

The players

Wunmi Mosaku

A British actress known for her powerful performances in gritty dramas like We Own This City and her Oscar-nominated role in Sinners.

Nicole Steele

A civil rights attorney who tries to hold the Baltimore Police Department accountable for the corruption within its Gun Trace Task Force.

Wayne Jenkins

A corrupt officer at the center of the Baltimore Police Department's scandal, played by actor Jon Bernthal.

Kevin Davis

The Baltimore Police Commissioner, played by actor Delaney Williams, who clashes with Steele over the department's misconduct.

David McDougall

A narcotics investigator who mounts evidence against the corrupt officers, played by actor David Corenswet.

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What’s next

Mosaku's acclaimed performance in We Own This City is expected to lead to more high-profile roles, as her work in the HBO miniseries has further cemented her status as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation.

The takeaway

We Own This City is a powerful and unflinching exploration of institutional corruption and racism within the criminal justice system, anchored by Wunmi Mosaku's nuanced and emotionally impactful performance as a civil rights attorney fighting an uphill battle against a system designed to protect itself.