Prime Video’s Rocky replacement series officially steals the spotlight with 11 days until Ali’s story arrives
Ali’s early years and rise
Jaalen Best plays Ali in The Greatest, which follows his journey from his boyhood in Tennessee as Cassius Clay through his development as an amateur and professional boxer. The story also covers his transformation into the outspoken Muhammad Ali and the fights that made him a global star.
Season 1 focuses on Ali’s early career. It includes his gold medal at the 1960 Olympics in Rome and two pivotal meetings with heavyweight champion Sonny Liston.
Eight episodes arrive November 4
The first season consists of eight episodes, all scheduled for an exclusive Prime Video release on November 4. The series is described as the most comprehensive adaptation of Ali’s life story to date.
Ben Watkins leads the series
Ben Watkins created, showruns and directs The Greatest. The series centers on a figure whose impact extended beyond boxing into public life and culture. Ali was heavyweight champion for much of the 1960s and 1970s. The show’s first season concentrates on the experiences and fights that helped establish his reputation.
Key points
- The Greatest premieres exclusively on Prime Video on November 4.
- Jaalen Best stars as Muhammad Ali in the eight-episode first season.
- Season 1 includes Ali’s 1960 Olympic gold medal and meetings with Sonny Liston.
- Filming took place in Toronto, Hamilton and Cobourg, Ontario.