Prime Video series The Greatest, starring Jaalen Best as the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, started production a few weeks ago in Toronto.
The world remembers an icon, but The Greatest is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother, and a son.
Muhammed Ali’s widow Lonnie Ali, actor Michael B. Jordan and showrunner Ben Watkins are executive-producing the first authorized scripted series about the life of boxer Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali).
Related: Prime’s The Greatest With Jaalen Best as Muhammad Ali Filming in Toronto This Spring
Growing up in the South, surrounded by racial bigotry and discrimination, Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali) fought not just for a living, but also for respect and rewards far more precious than money or glory. He was named Sportsman of the Century by Sports Illustrated and the BBC.
Ali redefined what it meant to be an athlete by giving hope to millions around the world and inspiring us all to fight for what is important to us. This is a multifaceted portrait of Muhammad Ali only he could render: sports legend, unapologetic anti-war advocate, outrageous showman and gracious goodwill ambassador, fighter, lover, poet, and provocateur, and an irresistible force to be reckoned with.
Cast:
Jaalen Best as the boxing legend Cassius Clay later Muhammad Ali.
Omari Hardwick as Ali’s father Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr.
Dana Gourier as Ali’s mother Odessa “Bird” Clay.
Kai Parham as Ali’s brother and fellow boxer Rudy Clay.
Armin Joseph as Ali’s rival Sunny Liston, the heavyweight champion.
Michael Ealy as Malcolm X.
The Greatest: A Story About Muhammad Ali
Episodes 8.
Toronto filming dates: April 21 2025 – July 22 2025.
Showrunner: Ben Watkins .
Cast: Jaalen Best, Omari Hardwick, Dana Gourrier, Kai Parham, Amin Joseph, Michael Ealey.
Producers: Lonnie Ali, Michael B. Jordan, Ben Watkins, Jay-Z, Blue Monday Productions, Grace – A Storytelling Company, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, Prime Video.
