MGM+ Orders 'Rules of Prey' Thriller Starring Jensen Ackles

Key points

• Jensen Ackles is set to headline and executive produce the new series 'Rules of Prey' for the MGM+ streaming platform.
• The series is based on the first novel in John Sandford's 'Prey' book series, which has expanded to 36 novels since 1989.
• Bruce Terris, who won an Emmy for 'DTF St. Louis', is serving as the showrunner and executive producer.
• The eight-episode season will begin filming in Toronto this month and is set to premiere in the U.S. and multiple international markets.
• Daniel Sackheim will direct the first two episodes and serve as an executive producer, while John Sandford is listed as a co-producer.

Background

This development follows Ackles' recent work on Amazon MGM Studios projects, including the 'The Boys' prequel 'Vought Rising' and the thriller 'Countdown'. It also follows the recent launch of another MGM+ thriller, 'American Hostage', starring Jon Hamm.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline, Variety, TVLine, and Yahoo all reported the news with consistent details regarding the cast and production timeline. Deadline emphasized Ackles' 'double duty' with Amazon MGM Studios, while TVLine focused on his post-'Supernatural' career trajectory. Variety noted the series' international release strategy, and Yahoo highlighted the contrast between this new violent role and his upcoming 'Vought Rising' prequel.

Why it matters

The series order signals MGM+'s continued investment in adapting popular literary properties and its reliance on established stars like Ackles to drive subscription growth. It also highlights the ongoing partnership between Ackles and Amazon MGM Studios, which is central to the studio's current programming strategy.

What to watch

Production for the eight-episode season is scheduled to begin in Toronto this month. The series is expected to premiere on MGM+ in the U.S. and international markets, though a specific release date has not yet been announced.