The Peacock limited series tells the untold story of one of Atlanta’s biggest nights in true crime.
Fight Night tells the story of an armed robbery that took place during Muhammad Ali’s 1970 comeback boxing match. After over three years outside of the ring, the city was buzzing upon the boxer’s arrival for this historic fight. For many Atlanta natives, including some of the series’ stars, this robbery was unheard of, even for those alive during this time.
However, it seems as though the telling of a historic event can only be presented by a star-studded cast of Black entertainment legends. Kevin Hart, Terrance Howard, Don Cheadle, Samuel L. Jackson, and Taraji P. Henson all take part in the principal cast, adding personality to these realistic characters.
The limited series also has a lineup of guest stars who act as the next generation of entertainment excellence. Within this group is Chloe Bailey (“Lena Mosley”) and Sinqua Walls (“McKinley Rogers”). The experience of working alongside so many titans of the industry was not lost on them. Chloe Bailey reflected on how this experience gave her reassurance about her career.
“I am definitely appreciative and grateful for where my journey is now. And to be a part of something like this, it definitely reminded me that yes, you are on the right path,” said Bailey. “And it’s almost as if these iconic legends are almost like passing the torch in a way, and knowing that they were gracious enough to let us live in their space and on the screen, it truly meant a lot,” said Bailey.
Sinqua Walls added that there were moments while filming that not only inspired him to continue growing as an actor, but showed him how important it is to stay true to himself.
“I think we live in an industry where, you know, we are always trying to be better at redefining self and trying to make sure that we are putting ourself forward,” said Walls. “And then you have all these different infusions that tell you, be this version of yourself or I like that version of yourself or be a better version of yourself, but being yourself is enough,” said Walls.
“And they all showed up as self, right?,” said Walls. “Taraji shows up as Taraji, Don shows up as Don, Kevin shows up as Kevin, Terrence shows up as Terrence and Sam shows up as Sam,” said Walls.
While working alongside Don Cheadle (“JD Hudson”), guest star Dexter Darden (“Muhammad Ali”) spoke highly of the comedic chemistry he was able to cultivate with the seasoned actor.
“I mean, he’s so smart and so funny, but also so brilliant at his craft,” said Darden. “That when you just have the opportunity in between scenes, you’re already sitting down talking, cracking jokes, that the camaraderie is already there,” said Darden.
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist is streaming now on Peacock and will have new episodes every Thursday through October 10.
