An upcoming Netflix thriller based on a bestselling series of novels is a must-watch for streamers this year
Netflix has confirmed a new thriller series based on an iconic series of books is in the works – and it’s shaping up to be a must-watch release for 2026.
Starring Watchmen’s Yahya Abdul-Mateen ll, the seven-episode first season follows former Special Forces soldier John Creasy, who’s looking to turn over a new leaf.
However, he must first battle his own personal demons before he can live the life he wants to lead.
Man on Fire will stream on Netflix at an undisclosed date in 2026. Based on the 1980 novel of the same name by A.J. Quinnell, the original book has spawned a bestselling series and a film adaptation starring Denzel Washington.
Joining Abdul-Mateen is Billie Boullet (World-Breaker) and City of God star Alice Braga in major roles.
Plus, True Detective’s Scoot McNairy and Only Murder in the Building’s Bobby Cannavale will also star in recurring roles.
Director Steven Caple Jr, who has helmed the blockbuster films Creed II and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, will direct the first two episodes.
An official synopsis from Netflix reads: “Man on Fire follows John Creasy, who was once a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary known for surviving even the most desolate situations.
“However, John is now battling extreme PTSD and personal demons. As he attempts a fresh start, he’ll find himself back in the (metaphorical) fire and fighting harder than ever.”
Actress Boullet will portray Poe Rayborn, a young woman “growing at a rapid and confusing pace” who reluctantly moves to Brazil when her parents relocate.
Spending her days with a class of wealthy international school friends, her worldview is totally thrown off its axis after witnessing a terrifying event and she’s forced to ally herself to John.
Braga is portraying Valeria Melo, “a professional driver with familial connections to a gang running a local favela. After Creasy hires Melo, she quickly becomes his right hand in protecting a young girl and pursuing terrorists.”
Cannavale will take on a guest role as Paul Rayburn, an ex-Special Forces soldier with an uncanny ability to read people. McNairy is guest starring as an intelligent and manipulative CIA agent, Henry Tappan.
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If you still need to be sold on this action-packed new series, Quinnell’s series of novels have built up a huge following of die-hard readers over the years who will surely be first in line.
One fan on Goodreads gave the first book a five-star review and said: “Few books are perfect action films but this is one of them.
“I have not felt this engrossed while reading a story in a long time. If you enjoy action or revenge movies you will dig this book.”
Netflix has just released a first-look at Abdul-Mateen in action, but stayed tuned for more details coming soon.
Man on Fire premieres in 2026 on Netflix.
