Route 187, a new, four-part limited series, is now streaming on Paramount+. The crime drama is produced by Tyler Perry Studios and created by Mark E. Swinton.
When tragedy strikes on an infamous bus route nicknamed Route 187, journalist Mason James (Christopher Livingston) looks beyond the surface to investigate murders happening in his community. In doing so, he uncovers evidence that a serial killer has been operating unnoticed for quite some time.
For those who love to binge-watch their crime series, the great news is that all four episodes of the series launched all at once on Paramount+. Read on to learn more about Route 187, including premiere and streaming details, plot, who’s in the cast and creative team, and more.
Key facts
- Route 187 is now streaming on Paramount+
- Premiere date: Sept. 16, 2026
- Where to watch: Paramount+
- Format: Limited series
- Episodes: 4
- Release schedule: All four episodes available at premiere
- Genre: Crime drama
- Studio: Tyler Perry Studios, BET Studios
- Executive producers: Mark E. Swinton
- Premise: A journalist investigates violence surrounding an infamous South Winslow bus route and discovers that a serial killer has been operating undetected for years.
When does Route 187 premiere?
Route 187 is now streaming on Paramount+. The entire four-part series launched all at once on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026.
Where to watch
Route 187 is available to stream on Paramount+. The limited series is part of BET Studio’s extended multi-year partnership with Tyler Perry. Earlier this year, BET content folded into Paramount+, so all you need is a Paramount+ subscription of any tier to watch Route 187. Visit the Paramount+ Help Center for more information on plans and pricing.
What is Route 187 about?
Route 187 is a crime mystery series enhanced by a social examination of a community that outsiders define only by its violence. The main story focuses on Mason James, a relentless journalist who decides to dig deeper into a tragic event on a South Winslow bus route that shakes the community. His investigation uncovers clues that a serial killer has operated undetected for years.
But atop the foundational whodunnit storyline, there’s more to Route 187. Though it’s a fictional town, South Winslow represents real cities across the country and around the world. The show explores the lives of relatable characters who are surrounded by violence and grasping for hope. Their circumstances allow viewers to confront biases, as their storylines complicate quick judgments about victims, villains, poverty and survival.
Who is in the cast?
The ensemble cast of Route 187 includes:
- Christopher Livingston as Mason James
- Tonia Jackson as Lisa Mims
- Elijah Collins as Roshawn
- Taiv Lee as Devon Coleman
- Javen Lewis as William
- Lawrence Robinson as EMP
- Rico Ball as Coach Lowe
- Jesse Lewis IV as Miss Stu
- Rona Dana as Pearl Billings
- Cuyle Carvin as Finely McGregor
Who created Route 187?
Mark E. Swinton is credited as the creator and writer of Route 187. The new series is produced by Tyler Perry Studios and BET Studios.
Why Route 187 stands out
Route 187 is a different type of crime drama. Yes, the thrilling mystery uncovered by Mason’s investigation is the central thread of the series. But it’s that combined with the stories of the individuals on the bus that separates Route 187 from conventional serial-killer dramas. The series’ storylines represent the crimes against those the world tends to ignore, their tales of struggle, endurance and sacrifice. It offers an examination of people living amid poverty and systemic violence.
With just four episodes all released at launch on Sept. 16, viewers can take in the full story at once, become immersed in the community, and consider – or reconsider – how the line between victim and villain is sometimes only a matter of circumstance.
Watch Route 187 on Paramount+
Crime drama buffs, prepare yourselves, because all four episodes of the limited series Route 187 launched on Paramount+ Sept. 16. We’ll meet you on the other side.
WATCH NOW: Route 187
FAQ
Is Route 187 a Tyler Perry series?
Route 187 is produced by Tyler Perry Studios. Mark E. Swinton is the creator and writer of the series.
How many episodes is Route 187?
The limited series consists of four episodes total. All episodes will be available to stream Sept. 16 on Paramount+.
Do all Route 187 episodes release at once?
Yes. Route 187 will be a full release, meaning all four episodes will stream beginning Sept. 16, rather than episodes premiering weekly.
Who plays Mason James in Route 187?
Mason James is portrayed by actor Christopher Livingston. Mason is the journalist whose inquiries and investigation drive the series’ central mystery.
What does Route 187 mean?
“Route 187” is the nickname given to the dangerous bus route in the show’s fictional town of South Winslow. 187 references the police code for a homicide, making “Route 187” a fitting name for a bus route where strange acts of violence occur.
