The two actors are friends IRL, and together, their characters will take on new issues around disability in compelling episodes of CBS’ NCIS: New Orleans.
Tune in tonight, Tuesday, April 2! Watch a special sneak preview here.
The Tuesday, April 2 episode of NCIS: New Orleans unites two passionate advocates for diversity inclusion in Hollywood, NCIS: New Orleans series regular Daryl “Chill” Mitchell and guest star Kurt Yaeger. The two men have been friends for just shy of a decade, however, this is the first time the two have worked on-screen together. Years ago, both Chill and Kurt survived very serious motorcycle accidents. Chill’s accident resulted in paralysis from the waist down and Kurt is a below the knee amputee after his accident tore his pelvis in half.
In the episode, the NCIS team investigates the murder of Patton’s friend, a former Navy Seal gunned down in a drive by shooting while Patton helplessly watched. After processing the first round of evidence, the team discovers that several current and former members of law enforcement with disabilities were, without their knowledge, being used to steal confidential information through bugs planted in their wheelchairs and braces.
Series regular Daryl “Chill” Mitchell plays Computer Specialist Patton Plame, an animated and talented hacker who assists the team in solving cases. Kurt Yaeger guest stars as Simms, a police officer injured on the job and undergoing extensive PT.
About Daryl & Kurt and Easterseals
Behind the scenes, Daryl and Kurt have joined with Easterseals to expand disability inclusion and representation in entertainment. Last fall, both actors participated in Variety’s first-ever 16-page special report, “Abilities Unlimited,” to bring attention to disabilities underrepresentation both in front and behind the cameras, provide tangible advice on best ways to recruit and employ people with disabilities and make the business case for doing so.
Annually, Daryl and Kurt also help to promote the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, a weekend-long contest which kicks off April 3. The Challenge gives aspiring filmmakers, with and without disabilities, an opportunity to tell unique stories that showcase disability in its many forms. Challenge winners receive production grants, computers, mentorship meeting with industry leaders and more.
Additionally, CBS Entertainment Diversity & Inclusion is a proud sponsor of the 2019 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge and is a long-time, committed partner in advancing disability inclusion, providing its time, talent and resources to Easterseals to help change the way the world defines and views disability.