Plot Synopsis

WACO: THE AFTERMATH is a five-episode limited series that focuses on the fallout of the Waco disaster: the trials of the surviving members of the Branch Davidian sect and the rise of homegrown terrorist, Timothy McVeigh. The series also provides a broader context for the escalation of the American militia movement, which foreshadows the infamous attacks of the Oklahoma City bombing and the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6. Michael Shannon reprises his WACO role as Gary Noesner, an FBI hostage negotiator who has PTSD from the failed negotiations with the Branch Davidians in Waco. John Leguizamo, who received an Emmy Award for WACO, reprises as Jacob Vasquez, an ATF agent who worked undercover during the lead up to Waco. Episodes include:

"Truths and Consequences" (Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 10pm): In the wake of the deadly siege at Waco, FBI negotiator Gary Noesner contends with finger pointing, and his own guilt. With national tensions flying high, the surviving Branch Davidians arrive in court where their trial is set to begin. A flashback reveals the moment that a young Vernon Howell arrives at Mount Carmel, before he would become the infamous David Koresh. Simulcast on CMT and Paramount.

"A Common Enemy" (Sunday, April 23, 2023 at 10pm): Courtroom testimony grows heated as both sides argue over who shot first. Gary and Angie discover some intriguing information during a stakeout at an Aryan Nation flophouse. Vernon and Lois return from their pilgrimage, and Vernon shares his vision. Gary pleads with FBI brass to take the domestic terror threat seriously.

"The Gospel According to Livingstone Fagan" (Sunday, April 30, 2023 at 10pm): Cogdell tells his team about a strange encounter, and later has a meeting with a man who might not be as crazy as he seems. Gary finds a clue that leads him to a disturbing confrontation, and later asks for help from an unlikely source. Vernon invites Livingstone to join him in Texas, and later makes a declaration with huge repercussions.

"Conspiracy" (Sunday, May 7, 2023 at 10pm): Carol infiltrates Elohim City, where there is a chilling undercurrent about an imminent war. Cogdell has multiple wins during cross examinations but is unsure whether it will be enough. Carol struggles to keep her cover at Elohim City. Vernon's battle for control over Mount Carmel takes a perilous turn.

"Reckoning" (Sunday, May 14, 2023 at 10:05pm): Gary finds himself under a ticking clock, hoping to prevent another disaster. The fate of the Branch Davidians is revealed as the trial concludes. Vernon returns to Mount Carmel, now the self-appointed prophet, David Koresh.