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American Scandal uses dramatizations that are based on true events.

Some elements, including dialogue, might be invented,

but everything is based on historical events. Some elements, including dialogue, might be invented, but everything is based on historical research.

It's April 2009, on the tarmac at Port-Forchon's heliport in Louisiana.

Mike Williams instinctively ducks his head to avoid the rotor wash as he approaches the helicopter,

then slings his duffel bag into the cargo hole.

He's brought everything he needs for the next three weeks.

That's the length of his shift, or hitch, as it's known among rig hands. The 36-year-old Williams is on his way to start a new job as chief electronics technician on the Deepwater Horizon

offshore oil rig. He'll be responsible for every electronic system on board, from navigation to security,

and the rig is positioned off the coast of Louisiana right now, and the only way to get there

is by helicopter. As he climbs into the cabin, Williams feels a thrill of excitement. The deep

water horizon is meant to be one of the most technologically advanced rigs in the world,

and as a mobile unit, it moves from site to site

and is responsible for drilling some of BP's deepest exploratory wells.

So for Williams, joining its crew feels like a step up to the big leagues.

Williams grabs an empty seat in the chopper and straps himself in. Sitting beside him is a large,

ruddy-cheeked man in his mid-thirties. A man sticks out his hand. Hey, how are you doing? You must be one

of the new guys. Jason Anderson, tool pusher. Williams leans over to shake Anderson's hand.

...