Michael Ealy Cast As Malcolm X In Muhammad Ali Series ‘The Greatest’

Michael Ealy is finally stepping into a role fans have long envisioned for him—Malcolm X. He will portray the legendary Civil Rights leader in Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming limited series The Greatest, which chronicles the life of boxing icon Muhammad Ali. Read more inside.

While Ealy’s role as Malcolm X is recurring, it marks the first time the Reasonable Doubt and Power Book II: Ghost actor will bring the revolutionary figure to life in a scripted project. For years, fans have championed Ealy as an ideal choice to portray the passionate leader, citing their resemblance, Ealy’s commanding presence and eloquent delivery. Though new to the fictional portrayal, Ealy has honored Malcolm X’s legacy before, performing live readings of his speeches in the acclaimed documentary The People Speak.

According to Deadline, The Greatest is set during Ali’s rise and explores his personal and professional life, including his close ties to Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam. Ali joined the NOI in the early ’60s, a move largely influenced by Malcolm’s mentorship, before parting ways in the 1970s.

The limited series boasts an all-star cast including Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier who portray Ali’s parents, Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr. and Odessa “Bird” Clay. Amin Joseph, best known for Snowfall, portrays heavyweight champ Sonny Liston, who famously lost to the then Cassius Clay in 1964, changing the face of boxing forever. Actor Parham also joins as Rudy Clay, Ali’s younger brother.

Produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society in partnership with Blue Monday Productions, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, and others, The Greatest is shaping up to be a powerful and deeply personal retelling of Ali’s legacy. Executive producers include Jordan, Ali’s widow Lonnie Ali, and several high-profile collaborators from across the entertainment and music worlds.

Ealy’s casting is a full-circle moment for the actor whose credits span from hit TV shows like Bel-Air, The Terminal List, and The Woman in the House… to films like The Perfect Guy, The Intruder, and Really Love. His thoughtful approach and nuanced performances have earned him acclaim and an NAACP Image Award nomination.

With The Greatest on the horizon, fans are eager to see Ealy embody Malcolm X’s spirit, voice, and complexity, in a role that feels not only long-awaited but perfectly timed.