Guy Pearce and Mary-Louise Parker Join ABC's LGBT-Themed Miniseries When We Rise

Ever since winning big at the Emmys last year for American Crime, ABC has been investing a lot of energy in the development of limited-series events that tackle big social issues and its latest attempt, When We Rise, has now found its cast.

Written by Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin LanceBlack (Milk), When We Rise tells the tale of a family of individuals that helped pioneer one of the last legs of the LGBT movement of the 20th century. According to the network, the series' cast will include Guy Pearce (Memento), Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds), Rachel Griffiths (Six Feet Under), Austin McKenzie, Emily Skeggs, newcomer Jonathan Majors and Fiona Dourif.

Sam Smith was just put on blast by Dustin Lance Black.

"It's been the honor of my life to research and craft these stories of family, diversity and equality over the past three years," Black said via a press release. "To have collaborators of this caliber sign on to help bring these stories to life is a tremendous vote of confidence, and I hope a testament to the relevancy and necessity of our continued march toward justice for all."

WATCH: Sam Smith responds to Dustin Lance Black's heated Oscars tweets.