Netflix drops first trailer for ‘Man on Fire’ series — with Yahya Abdul‑Mateen II stepping into Denzel Washington’s iconic role

Netflix is doubling down on high‑octane literary adaptations, and its latest project revisits one of Denzel Washington’s most memorable action thrillers. The streamer has released the first trailer for Man on Fire, a new series based on A.J. Quinnell’s novels featuring the character John Creasy.

While Washington isn’t returning, the role is now in the hands of Emmy winner Yahya Abdul‑Mateen II, who plays a tormented former mercenary seeking redemption as he’s pulled into a violent spiral of revenge.

A new take on Man on Fire — not a prequel, not a remake

Despite what fans might expect, Netflix’s Man on Fire isn’t a prequel or a direct remake of the 2004 Tony Scott film. Instead, the show goes back to the original novels, reimagining Creasy’s story for a modern audience.

This version follows the ex–special operations soldier as he tries to leave his brutal past behind. Hoping for a fresh start, he takes one last job in Rio de Janeiro — only to find himself once again entangled in the city’s criminal underworld.

A stacked cast and a seven‑episode first season

Created by Kyle Killen (Lone Star, Halo), the series will debut with a seven‑episode first season. Alongside Abdul‑Mateen II (Watchmen, Wonder Man), the cast includes Alice Braga, Scoot McNairy, Billie Boullet, Paul Ben‑Victor, and Bobby Cannavale.

A cult classic legacy — and a new direction

Tony Scott’s 2004 film became a cult favorite over the years, influencing everything from gritty action movies to video games like Max Payne 3. Much of its staying power came from its dark tone and Denzel Washington’s unforgettable performance as a broken, vengeful Creasy.

But based on the trailer, Netflix’s adaptation is carving out its own identity. By drawing directly from Quinnell’s novels and using an episodic format, the series has room to dig deeper into Creasy’s military past, his trauma, and the emotional conflicts that define him.

Fans are eager to see whether the show can capture the intensity and emotional weight that made the film iconic — while expanding the story into a broader, more layered narrative.

Can Netflix’s Man on Fire Win Over Old Fans and New Viewers?

That’s the big question. The series carries the legacy of a beloved thriller and the challenge of reinventing a character many viewers associate with Denzel Washington. But the first trailer hints at a richer backstory, a more expansive world, and a fresh interpretation of Creasy that could make this one of Netflix’s standout action releases of 2026.

If the show delivers on its promise, Man on Fire might not just honor the original — it could redefine it for a new generation.

The series is set to premiere on April 30 at 3 a.m. ET.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.