Prime Video’s upcoming limited series The Greatest, which chronicles the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, has added two more talented actors to its cast. Reno Wilson and Erica Tazel have been cast in recurring roles. Giovanni Ribisi and Aleks Puanovic have also joined the cast.
The Greatest is an eight-episode series that will explore the defining moments of Muhammad Ali’s life and career—both inside and outside of the ring. While Ali is remembered as an icon, this series aims to uncover the man behind the gloves, offering a nuanced portrait of his life as a father, son, husband, and brother. The series will highlight well-documented moments from his career and reveal lesser-known aspects of his personal journey.
Reno Wilson has been cast as Bundini Brown, Ali’s cornerman, and sometimes speechwriter. Brown is credited with crafting Ali’s iconic quote: “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, rumble, young man, rumble.” Wilson’s portrayal will bring to life a man who was an integral part of Ali’s success, providing not just physical support, but also the words that inspired a generation.
Erica Tazel will portray Geraldine Liston, the wife of Sonny Liston, Ali’s famous rival. Geraldine’s role is significant in telling the story of Liston’s life, providing insight into the personal struggles and triumphs of one of the boxing world’s most complicated figures.
Leading the cast is Jaalen Best, who will portray the legendary Muhammad Ali himself. Other notable members of the cast include Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier, who will star as Ali’s parents, Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr. and Odessa “Bird” Clay, respectively. Kai Parham will play Rudy Clay, Ali’s younger brother, and Amin Joseph takes on the role of Sonny Liston, Ali’s heavyweight rival.
In a recurring role, Michael Ealy will portray Malcolm X, whose relationship with Ali played a significant role in shaping the boxer’s life and career. The series will explore the profound impact that the civil rights leader had on Ali, particularly during his time with the Nation of Islam.
Additionally, Giovanni Ribisi will play Angelo Dundee, who trained Ali during key parts of his boxing career, and Aleks Paunovic will portray William Faversham Jr., the eldest son of Broadway actor William Faversham Sr., who provided Ali with crucial financial support during the early years of his boxing journey.
The series is produced by Ben Watkins (Cross) and executive produced by Michael B. Jordan through his Outlier Society, with Elizabeth Raposo serving as president of the company. Alongside Watkins and Jordan, the series will be executive produced by Lonnie Ali, Ali’s widow, along with Authentic Brand Group’s Corey Salter, Marc Rosen, and Matthew Gross. Additional executive producers include Aiyana White, Jeff Augustin, and Roc Nation’s Michele Anthony and Boyd Muir. Co-executive producer David Blackman will represent Polygram Entertainment, and Josh Wakely will oversee the project via his Grace: A Storytelling Company.