Michael B. Jordan and Ali Family Unveil Scripted Series 'The Greatest' in New York
Cast members, filmmakers, and the family of Muhammad Ali gathered in New York City to premiere 'The Greatest,' an eight-episode scripted series bound for Prime Video. Produced by Michael B. Jordan's Outlier Society with direct involvement from Yolanda 'Lonnie' Ali, the project focuses on the icon's early adult years, principles, and private life.
The enduring legacy of heavyweight champion and global icon Muhammad Ali took center stage in New York City as cast members, creative leaders, and relatives gathered for the red carpet premiere of 'The Greatest.' According to reporting by Black Enterprise, the eight-episode production represents the first authorized scripted series to chronicle Ali's life, with an emphasis on his young adulthood rather than just his legendary boxing triumphs.
Executive producer Michael B. Jordan attended the screening alongside his production banner, Outlier Society. As reported by Black Enterprise, the series sets out to illuminate Ali's private relationships, professional trials, political convictions, and humanitarian pursuits. Jordan noted that partnering directly with Ali's widow, Yolanda 'Lonnie' Ali, provided an unprecedented window into the icon's home life.
Jordan told Black Enterprise that having the freedom to work directly with the Ali Estate without bureaucratic obstacles allowed the team to present a fuller view of the fighter. Jordan explained that audiences have previously watched documentaries and feature films, but working hand-in-hand with Lonnie Ali provided an opportunity to portray Ali's family life on a deeper level.
Lonnie Ali, who serves as interim president and chief executive officer of the Muhammad Ali Center and is an executive producer on the show, praised newcomer Jaalen Best for his portrayal of the boxing great. She told Black Enterprise that Best shares a noticeable resemblance to her late husband, citing his warmth, excitement for the world, and manner of connecting with people. She acknowledged that witnessing the series unfold would be an emotional experience.
Ali's daughter, Khaliah Ali, also commended Best's performance, telling Black Enterprise she hopes viewers embrace her father's spirit during current times of political unrest. She expressed hope that the show underscores his dedication to standing up for what is right despite facing personal setbacks.
Series creator, showrunner, and executive producer Ben Watkins shared that helming the show felt like a full-circle milestone after reading a children's biography of Ali at age seven. According to Watkins, the search for the central actor spanned eighteen months, noting that on-set visits from people who personally knew Ali were left astonished by Best's uncanny resemblance and approach.
The red carpet event at Regal Times Square drew additional key contributors, including musician Wyclef Jean, who crafted the title song for the series. Jean told Black Enterprise that Ali embodied triumph and sacrificed himself for humanity by speaking out when others were hesitant. Other cast members present included Omari Hardwick, who portrays Ali's father, Cassius Clay Sr.; Kai Parham, who portrays brother Rudy Clay; and Michael Ealy, who appears as civil rights leader Malcolm X. The evening concluded with an afterparty at STORIED NYC.