In an exciting development for fans of sports history and drama, actors Kai Parham and Michael Ealy have officially joined the cast of Prime Video's upcoming limited series, The Greatest, which chronicles the life of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. The show, produced by Michael B. Jordan and Ben Watkins, aims to highlight not just Ali's iconic moments in the ring but also the personal aspects of his life, portraying him as a man, husband, father, brother, and son.
Michael Ealy, known for his roles in Power Book II: Ghost and Reasonable Doubt, will take on the pivotal role of Malcolm X. This casting choice has been highly anticipated, as Ealy's name has been frequently mentioned among fans as the ideal actor to portray the influential civil rights leader. Although this will be Ealy's first time playing Malcolm X in a fictional narrative, he has previously engaged with the character through live readings of Malcolm's speeches, notably in the documentary The People Speak.
Ali's connection to Malcolm X is profound; the boxing champion joined the Nation of Islam, which Malcolm X was a passionate spokesperson for until 1964, before eventually severing ties in the 1970s. The series promises to delve into these complex relationships and the broader cultural context of the time.
In addition to Ealy, Kai Parham will portray Rudy Clay, Ali’s younger brother. Parham's career began at the tender age of 11 when he played Donkey in Shrek the Musical. He has since honed his craft, earning a B.A. in Theatre, Acting & Directing from Concordia University Irvine. His previous work includes a role in Colin in Black & White, created by Colin Kaepernick and Ava DuVernay.
The series has also cast Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier as Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr. and Odessa “Bird” Clay, respectively, Ali’s parents. Snowfall star Amin Joseph will take on the role of Sonny Liston, Ali's formidable rival, who was considered unbeatable until he lost the heavyweight title to Ali in 1964. This pivotal fight marked a significant moment in both Ali's career and boxing history.
Produced under Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society, The Greatest is part of an overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios and is backed by several production companies, including Watkins' Blue Monday Productions, Authentic Studios, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, and Grace: A Storytelling Company. Lonnie Ali, Muhammad Ali's widow, is also an executive producer, ensuring that the series remains true to the spirit and legacy of the boxing icon.
The narrative of The Greatest is set to explore not just the well-documented achievements of Muhammad Ali but also the lesser-known aspects of his life that shaped him into the man the world came to admire. The series aims to provide a comprehensive portrait of Ali, highlighting the struggles and triumphs he faced both in the public eye and in his personal life.
With a talented cast and a compelling premise, The Greatest is poised to be a significant addition to the growing list of biographical dramas that seek to educate and inspire audiences about influential figures in history. As the series progresses, viewers can expect to see a rich tapestry of storytelling that intertwines Ali's boxing career with his personal relationships and sociopolitical activism.
As fans await the series premiere, excitement continues to build around the portrayal of such a multifaceted and revered figure. Michael Ealy's and Kai Parham's involvement adds fresh energy to the project, promising to bring both authenticity and depth to their respective roles. The series is not just about boxing; it’s about the life lessons, the challenges, and the victories that define a true champion.
Scheduled for release on Prime Video, The Greatest is set to captivate audiences with its unique perspective on a man who transcended sports to become a global icon. As the production team works diligently to bring this story to life, viewers can look forward to an engaging exploration of Muhammad Ali’s legacy.
