New Amsterdam chronicles the story of a New York homicide detective, John Amsterdam, who is brilliant, mysterious, reckless, magnetic, and most of all, immortal. Back in 1642, he was a Dutch soldier in the colony of New Amsterdam (which later became New York City) where he stepped in front of a sword to save a Native American girl during a massacre of her tribe. In return, the girl cast an ancient spell that granted him immortality until he finds his one true love. As time passes, Amsterdam's blessing becomes a curse, as he is left eternally alone, with lovers and children dying while he remains young. When Amsterdam suffers and recovers from a massive heart attack, he realizes that may have found his sole mate who will help him become whole and mortal.