Prime Video’s upcoming limited series The Greatest, chronicling the life of boxing icon Muhammad Ali, has added another powerhouse actor to its cast. Amin Joseph, known for his portrayal of Jerome Saint on Snowfall, will take on the role of heavyweight champion Sonny Liston, Ali’s formidable rival.
The Greatest promises to explore the pivotal moments in Ali’s career and personal life, offering a deep dive into the man behind the legend. The series will showcase both the well-known events in Ali’s career and lesser-known aspects of his personal life, shedding light on his journey as a son, father, husband, and brother, alongside his public persona as the celebrated boxer. Jaalen Best will star as the boxing legend Muhammad Ali, with Joseph playing Liston—nicknamed “The Bear”—who was once considered unbeatable until he lost his title to the brash young Ali in 1964.
In addition to Joseph’s casting, other key players have been confirmed, including Omari Hardwick (Power) and Dana Gourrier (P-Valley), who will portray Ali’s parents, Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr. and Odessa “Bird” Clay, respectively.
The Greatest is being produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society, in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, Ben Watkins’ Blue Monday Productions, and a host of other production companies including Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, and Grace: A Storytelling Company. Jordan, Watkins, and Outlier Society president Elizabeth Raposo serve as executive producers, alongside Lonnie Ali, Muhammad Ali’s widow, who ensures that the series remains true to Ali’s legacy.
Amin Joseph, whose recent projects include One of Them Days and the 2023 Sundance film To Live and Die and Live, is no stranger to powerful performances. He earned widespread acclaim for his role in Snowfall, and his directorial debut on the series garnered two NAACP Image Award nominations. Joseph’s casting as Sonny Liston adds another layer of depth to an already impressive ensemble cast, promising a gripping portrayal of one of Ali’s most significant rivals.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect an intimate and multifaceted look at the life of Muhammad Ali, exploring the impact he had both in and out of the ring. With its strong cast and production backing, The Greatest is shaping up to be a must-watch event that will bring the legendary fighter’s life story to the screen in a fresh and powerful way.
Stay tuned for more updates as Prime Video’s The Greatest continues to take shape.