Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is stepping into Denzel Washington’s footsteps in Netflix’s upcoming series, Man on Fire, according to TUDUM, the Netflix-owned blog.
Having made a name for himself on DC projects like Watchmen and Aquaman, Abdul-Mateen is returning to television as John Creasy, a Special Forces soldier looking for a fresh start. But like any former special forces John must battle his personal demons before he can truly turn over a new leaf. Bobby Cannavale has joined the drama, which will also star World-Breaker’s Billie Boullet.
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Man on Fire is based on author A.J. Quinnell’s 1980s book series. Director Steven Caple Jr. will direct the first two episodes of the series’s eight-episode first season. This is the second time the Man on Fire story has been adapted, following the 2004 Tony Scott-directed film of the same name, starring the iconic Denzel Washington.
When it comes to the people behind the camera, Fear Street’s Kyle Killen is the series writer, executive producer, and showrunner. Additionally, director Steven Caple Jr. (known for his work on Creed II) directs the first two episodes of the new series and also serves as executive producer alongside Killen and Abdul-Mateen.
This announcement follows Prime Video’s large successes with book series to television adaptations, primarily the Alan Ritchson-led Reacher and the Aldis Hodge-led Cross. Man on Fire joins Netflix’s Lincoln Lawyer and Lupin as one of the streamer’s “based-on-a-book-series” offerings.
What is the Man on Fire TV series about?
Like the 2004 film, Man on Fire follows John Creasy, who was once a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary known for surviving even the most desolate situations. But unlike the film, this 10-episode series will dive deep into John’s new battle with extreme PTSD. As he attempts a fresh start, he’ll find himself back in the thick of everything he wanted to leave.
Another core character revealed by the streamer is Poe Rayburn, a girl who is unhappy about her parents’ decision to move to Brazil. So she spends her days with her wealthy international classmates until a tragic incident changes her perspective on family and life. As the sole witness to a terrifying event, Poe quickly learns that her only real ally is John.
Finally, Bobby Cannavale will also star in Man on Fire as Paul Rayburn, an ex–Special Forces soldier with a unique ability to read people. Paul is described as charming, nurturing, and protective of those he cares for.
Man on Fire Season 1 Cast
Netflix has released casting information for three roles in the new drama series:
- Yahya Abdul-Mateen as John Creasy
- Billie Boullet as Poe Rayburn
- Bobby Cannavale as Paul Rayburn
What is the release date for Man On Fire?
Man on Fire has only just begun sharing casting information and has not yet begun filming. There is currently no release date for the project.
