Amazon's new biographical drama The Greatest starts streaming on November 4, and the first review from The Hollywood Reporter makes the case that its lead, Jaalen Best, is the reason to press play.
Quick answer
The Greatest is an eight-episode Amazon series from Ben Watkins, the showrunner behind Cross. It follows the then-Cassius Clay from the 1960 Olympics to his first heavyweight title shot. It premieres Wednesday, November 4 on Amazon Prime Video. Jaalen Best plays Clay, with Omari Hardwick, Dana Gourrier, Kai Parham, Amin Joseph, Michael Ealy and Giovanni Ribisi in the cast.
Is it good?
Per The Hollywood Reporter's Daniel Fienberg, the answer is a qualified yes: it is uneven but impressive, and Best is the standout. The review credits him with capturing Clay's spirit without drifting into mimicry, a hard task given how familiar the boxer's persona is. This is the first major review, so the critical consensus is still forming.
What kind of show it is
Fienberg describes an authorized biography that leans toward hagiography, but one that understands why Ali unsettled the boxing establishment and much of the country. He compares the structure to NatGeo's Genius and FX's Feud: a great figure placed in historical context, with side stories along the way. Watkins directed the first two episodes, and the opening starts in Rome in 1960.
Who it is for
If you like prestige biopics that mix famous moments with smaller, lesser-known episodes, this fits. If you want a critical look at Ali's legacy, the review suggests this is a loving portrait first.
Related
Streaming-animation fans may also want the Blue Eye Samurai season 2 date.
Frequently asked questions
Q: When does The Greatest premiere?
A: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 on Amazon.
Q: How many episodes are in season 1?
A: Eight.
Q: Who plays Muhammad Ali?
A: Jaalen Best plays Cassius Clay, before he became Muhammad Ali.
Q: Who created it?
A: Ben Watkins, who also runs Amazon's Cross.
Q: What period does season 1 cover?
A: The 1960 Rome Olympics through his first shot at the heavyweight title.