*Michael Ealy is the latest addition to the cast of “The Greatest,” Prime Video’s limited series chronicling the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali.
The series, backed by executive producer Michael B. Jordan and showrunner Ben Watkins, aims to explore both the public and private sides of the sports icon. Kai Parham is set to portray Rudy Clay, Ali’s younger brother, as a series regular. Ealy, in a recurring role, will take on the powerful part of Malcolm X, Deadline reports.
Jaalen Best stars as Ali in what producers promise will be a deeply human portrayal of the champion as more than just a global icon. “The world remembers an icon, but The Greatest is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother, and a son,” reads the series’ guiding statement.
Other cast members include Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier as Ali’s parents, Cassius Sr. and Odessa Clay. Amin Joseph will play rival Sonny Liston, the fighter once thought unbeatable before Ali famously took his title in 1964.
“This is an awe-inspiring story of one of the most significant global figures of the 20th century,” said Vernon Sanders, head of television at Amazon MGM Studios. “We are proud to work with such a passionate and talented team.”
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Executive producers include Jordan, Watkins, Elizabeth Raposo of Outlier Society, Lonnie Ali, and representatives from Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, and Universal Music Group.
“To be trusted with the honor of telling the story of my most cherished hero, Muhammad Ali, is humbling and scary, and a dream come true,” Watkins shared.
“I’m thrilled to be producing The Greatest alongside Ben Watkins who captured the essence and nuance of Muhammad. With Jaalen Best, we have uncovered a soulful gem. He is such a talented young man who not only embodies Muhammad, but exudes his resilience, courage, charisma and confidence,” said Lonnie Ali, the boxing legend’s widow.
“We are excited to participate in a project celebrating the iconic athlete, trailblazer, and activist, Muhammad Ali. His impact extended far beyond the boxing ring, using his platform to inspire and transform culture,” said Desiree Perez, CEO, Roc Nation. It’s an honor to collaborate with all our partners, especially Lonnie Ali. “The Greatest,” is a perfect title for a show dedicated to his legacy.”
“The Greatest” is the first authorized scripted series about Ali’s life, and will stream exclusively on Prime Video.
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