Derek Haas & Michael Connelly Q&A

The Department of Film & Digital Media invites you to an exclusive, free Q&A session with two titans of crime fiction and screen storytelling: Michael Connelly and Derek Haas.

Whether you are an aspiring screenwriter, filmmaker, novelist, or an avid fan of crime drama and procedural television, this session offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into high-level storytelling, adapting bestselling novels for the screen, running major television franchises, and breaking into the entertainment industry.

Featured Guests:

• Michael Connelly — New York Times bestselling author of over 43 novels and recipient of the Edgar Award, the Diamond Dagger, and the Grand Master title from the Mystery Writers of America. Connelly is the executive producer behind acclaimed series including Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, The Lincoln Lawyer, and Ballard, as well as feature adaptations like Clint Eastwood’s Blood Work and The Lincoln Lawyer starring Matthew McConaughey.

• Derek Haas — Accomplished creator, executive producer, and novelist. Haas is the creator of the upcoming series Countdown and co-creator of the blockbuster One Chicago franchise (Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med) and FBI: International. His feature screenwriting credits include 3:10 to Yuma, Wanted, and 2 Fast 2 Furious, and he is the author of The Silver Bear book series, The Way I Die, A Different Lie, and The Right Hand.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, October 16, 2026

• Time: 3:00 PM

• Location: Marrs McLean Science Building, Room 101

• Admission: Free and open to students, faculty, and guests