From Basketball Dreams to Muhammad Ali: Jaalen Best Wanted Athlete Fame, Now Playing the Greatest Boxer Onscreen

A turn toward acting

Best began exploring acting during his junior year at East Carolina University in 2019, after taking an introductory class. His professor praised his improv skills and encouraged him to consider pursuing acting in a larger market.

At first, Best resisted the suggestion because he was focused on basketball. His then-girlfriend later persuaded him to audition for a hometown production of Pocahontas in Clinton, North Carolina, where he played Chief Powhatan.

He balanced basketball practice, classes and rehearsals, including a 90-minute drive to his hometown. Performing eventually became more enjoyable to him than basketball, he said.

Building a career in Los Angeles

After college, Best moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. The early years were difficult, and he took background work and occasional guest roles while seeking representation. In 2023, he began auditioning for the role of Muhammad Ali in The Greatest. The process involved seven or eight auditions and was slowed by the actors’ strike, Best recalled.

The role comes into reach

With no offer confirmed, Best considered other opportunities and received a six-month contract with Days of Our Lives. He continued hoping for the Ali role while his team told the producers about the soap opera booking.

The producers then brought Best to Los Angeles for a network test. He ultimately landed the part of the legendary boxer in the Prime Video series, which premieres Nov. 4.