The legendary 1999 U.S. Women's Soccer team is about to get the Netflix treatment, and the cast is filling out! Get ready to relive one of the most inspiring moments in sports history as Netflix's upcoming drama, 'The 99'ers,' continues to assemble its star-studded lineup. This series promises to take us back to that unforgettable summer of '99, a time when a group of incredible athletes not only conquered the world stage but also profoundly changed the landscape of women's sports forever.
But here's where it gets even more exciting: Six talented actresses have just joined the ensemble, ready to embody the iconic players who made history. We're talking about bringing to life the very athletes who captivated millions and set new benchmarks for attendance and television viewership. Julia McDermott, known for her work in 'Women of the Movement,' will step into the cleats of the legendary defender Brandi Chastain. Shaunette Renée Wilson, who recently appeared in 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,' is set to portray the formidable goalkeeper Briana Scurry. Perry Mattfeld, familiar to audiences from 'Chad Powers,' will take on the role of the dynamic forward/midfielder Michelle Akers. Annabel O’Hagan, from 'Fallout,' is cast as the commanding '99 World Cup team captain, Carla Overbeck. Lizzy Greene, who starred in 'Ransom Canyon,' will embody the spirited midfielder Kristine Lilly. And Isabelle Fuhrman, of 'Orphan' fame, is slated to play the resilient defender Joy Fawcett.
And this is the part most people miss: These incredible women aren't just playing athletes; they're stepping into the shoes of pioneers. Zoey Deutch is already leading the charge as Marla Messing, the visionary U.S. Women's soccer executive who was instrumental in orchestrating the phenomenally successful 1999 World Cup tournament. We'll also see Emily Bader and Emilia Jones as the dynamic duo Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, and Alessandro Nivoa will be at the helm as Head Coach Tony DiCicco.
The series draws its inspiration from Jeré Longman's acclaimed 2000 book, 'The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women's Soccer Team and How It Changed the World.' 'The 99'ers' will transport us back to that pivotal year, chronicling the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team's improbable journey. Imagine the tension: a dramatic penalty kick shootout against China in the World Cup final, played under a blazing sun in front of a roaring crowd of 93,000 fans. This wasn't just a game; it was a watershed moment that ignited passion for women's sports across the globe.
Guiding this epic story are director Nicole Kassell and a talented writing team including Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges, with initial writing contributions from Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio. The production is helmed by Liza Chasin for 3Dot Productions, alongside Hayley Stool and Ross Greenburg, with Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith serving as executive producers.
It's fascinating to see how each actress brings her unique experience to these legendary roles. From McDermott's past work in historical dramas to Wilson's commanding presence, the casting truly feels inspired. Do you think these actresses will capture the spirit and grit of the original '99ers? And what do you believe was the single biggest impact of that 1999 World Cup victory on women's sports today? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
