Prime Video has announced an exciting limited series, 'The Greatest', that delves into the life of the legendary Muhammad Ali, with Michael B. Jordan as one of the producers.
- July 12, 2024
AceShowbiz - In what is considered the first authorized scripted series about Muhammad Ali with access to his estate, Prime Video has officially ordered "The Greatest". The series stars Jaalen Best, known for his role in "All American: Homecoming", who will bring to life the story of the boxing legend.
Viewers can expect a comprehensive look at the defining moments of Ali's life and career, showcasing both his well-documented public life and the lesser-known events that unfolded away from the spotlight.
Produced by Michael B. Jordan's Outlier Society, which holds an overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios, alongside Ben Watkins' Blue Monday Productions, Authentic Studios, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment - a Universal Music Group partner, and Grace: A Storytelling Company, "The Greatest" boasts a powerhouse team of collaborators. The involvement of Ali's widow, Lonnie Ali, as an executive producer adds an authoritative touch to the project.
"Muhammad Ali's 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 Ben alongside Outlier, Roc Nation, Polygram, Grace, Authentic Brands, Lonnie Ali, and the very talented Jaalen Best, who we know will do a remarkable job bringing The Greatest to life for our global Prime Video customers."
For executive producer Ben Watkins, working on "The Greatest" is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility. "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," he shared.
Lonnie Ali expressed her excitement about Best playing her late husband, stating that he embodies Ali's resilience, courage, charisma, and confidence. Josh Wakely, another executive producer, has spent years clinching the life story rights, which eventually led to securing the project with Amazon.
The series is produced in association with Amazon MGM Studios, Outlier Society, Authentic Studios, Blue Monday Productions, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, and Grace: A Storytelling Company. Additional executive producers include Elizabeth Raposo, Corey Salter, Marc Rosen, Matthew Gross, Michele Anthony, Boyd Muir, Co-EP David Blackman, and Stefano Agosto.
Jaalen Best is represented by Luber Roklin Entertainment and GGSSC while Watkins is represented by UTA and Hirsch Wallerstein Hayum.
The Greatest follows previous portrayals of Ali by notable actors including Terrence Howard, David Ramsey, Will Smith, and Eli Goree, each contributing to the rich legacy of depicting the iconic boxer's life onscreen.