Background

Manhattan is about the team of scientists at Los Alamos who developed the first atomic bombs, and the lives of their families in the artificial suburban subdivision the government built to house them.

None of the scientists were allowed to discuss their research with their families, and knowledge of the whole scope of the project (to build a weapon capable of destroying all life on earth) was known only to a select few. Conspiracy, lies, paranoia and the moral conflict are themes that run throughout the show.

Expectations going into the premiere of the show were modest. The ratings were lower than for Salem, but the critical response was very positive. The show did well enough that it was renewed for a second season.