Plot Synopsis

THE HOT ZONE: ANTHRAX, the second installment in THE HOT ZONE anthology series, is a six-episode, three-night event that depicts the plight and eventual triumph over a national threat, which took place in 2001, when the United States was rocked by another deadly act of terrorism. Letters containing anthrax were sent to unsuspecting victims in Florida, Washington, D.C., and New York. The anonymous assault claimed five lives and caused panic throughout the U.S. Despite many false leads, a team of FBI agents and scientists slowly closed in on a shocking prime suspect. Inspired by true events, this series follows parallel stories of Matthew Ryker and Dr. Bruce Ivins. Ryker, an FBI agent with a specialty in microbiology, risks his career to convince his superiors of the unthinkable just three weeks after the 9/11 attacks: The United States is under attack again. Ivins, a brilliant microbiologist who becomes embroiled in the hunt to find the 2001 anthrax killer, works closely with the FBI to uncover who is behind the deadly anthrax letters, while his growing instability and paranoia give way to deeper unnerving discoveries. The story also includes FBI Special Agent Dani Toretti, who is tough enough to maneuver through the boys club in the bureau and is among the first agents on the ground at the 2001 Capitol Hill anthrax attack; bureau newbie agent Chris Moore, a graduate of Quantico and eager to learn under a seasoned agent; high-ranking FBI lifer Ed Copak, who feels the weight of responsibility to get justice for a wounded nation after the recent events of 9/11; FBI agent Eric Sykes, a cocky agent who delights in mocking Ryker for his hunt for "elusive bio-weapons"; Sheila Willis, a pharmaceutical lobbyist dating Ryker but rethinking her priorities after 9/11; Dr. Simon Kurz, a USAMRIID colleague of Ivins who finds himself out of his depth when suspicion among scientists starts to bubble up in the tight quarters of the biosafety level 4 labs; Jody Hall, a diligent USAMRIID scientist seen as a confidante by many with a wary eye on the political and personal agendas of those around her; Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who emerges as a bold advocate for the citizens of New York City after the 9/11 terrorist attacks; and respected journalist and NBC news anchor Tom Brokaw, the steady and trusted voice of reason for a post 9/11 nation.

Episodes include:

"Noble Eagle" (Sunday, November 28, 2021 at 9pm): After an anthrax attack on US soil, Special Agent Matthew Ryker begins his investigation.

"Hell's Chimney" (Sunday, November 28, 2021 at 10pm): The investigation moves to New York as a new case of anthrax appears at 30 Rock.

"Neither Rain Nor Sleet..." (Monday, November 29, 2021 at 9pm): An attack on Capitol Hill sends panic through DC; officials struggle to properly respond.

"Dream Boldly, Live Fully" (Monday, November 29, 2021 at 10pm): Ryker and team trace how the letter was sent, as another side of Bruce comes to light.

"Stentor Roeselii" (Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at 9pm): Dani's lone wolf theory gains traction, and the FBI surprises Ryker with an announcement.

"RMR-1029" (Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at 10pm): Bruce becomes increasingly unhinged as the FBI circles him as a suspect.