Prime Video announced it has ordered a new thriller series, “Countdown” from Derek Haas with Jensen Ackles (The Boys, Supernatural) set to helm the series.
The 13-episode series was developed for Ackles, who is also under a first-look television deal with Amazon MGM Studios. This will be his first lead television role since “Supernatural”. This is the first series from Derek Haas under his new exclusive overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Countdown will stream exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
Countdown follows a suspicious murder in broad daylight, which leads to LAPD officer Mark Meachum (Jensen Ackles) being recruited to join a secret task force of undercover agents from all branches of law enforcement to investigate. But as the truth of a more sinister plot comes into focus, the team must overcome their conflicting personal agendas to unite and save a city of millions.
“We are incredibly excited to be back in business with Derek Haas. He has an undeniable ability to enthrall audiences with thrilling storytelling and heart. We cannot wait for Prime Video’s global customers to experience this dynamic series, led by our very talented star, Jensen Ackles,” said Vernon Sanders, head of television, Amazon MGM Studios.
Actor, director, and producer Jensen Ackles has lent his charisma and talent to some of the most beloved series of recent years, including six-time People’s Choice Award-winning show “Supernatural”, “Dawson’s Creek”, “Smallville,” “Dark Angel” and most recently Prime Video’s Emmy-winning series “The Boys”. Some of his other films include Additional credits include “Big Sky”, “My Bloody Valentine”, “Devour”, and “Ten Inch Hero”.
This year he guest starred alongside Justin Hartley on the brand new show “Tracker”, he also voices “Batman”/”Bruce Wayne” in DC’s animated three-part movie event “Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earth”, reprising the role from 2001’s “Batman: The Long Halloween”.
“I had an incredible experience working with the Prime Video team on The Boys and am delighted to be able to continue that relationship on Countdown,” said Jensen Ackles. “I simply cannot wait to partner with Derek and the rest of our Countdown family to bring this story to life.” Ackles has an incredible versatility when it comes to acting and a natural charisma that captures the audiences hearts. Which will makes him a great leading man to take on this role. After having acted in such intense, dramatic and comedic roles, such as Soldier Boy, Eric Brady and of course Dean Winchester, playing an LAPD officer who joins a secret task force should be a very interesting next chapter for Jensen’s career.
Haas created the series and serves as executive producer and showrunner. The series is produced by Amazon MGM Studios. Haas is a renowned writer and producer who co-created and executive produced five hit television shows in the last decade: “Chicago Fire”, “Chicago PD”, “Chicago Med”, “FBI”, and “FBI: International.” Safe to say this man knows what he’s doing when it comes to crime thrillers.
He has also written and produced many hit feature films and published a best-selling book series. The features “3:10 to Yuma”, “Wanted”, “2 Fast 2 Furious”, and “Catch That Kid” were all co-written by Haas when he was part of a writing team with Michael Brandt. These popular films grossed over a half-billion dollars worldwide at the box office.
“I am thrilled to be working again with Jen Salke and Vernon Sanders and all the excellent people they’ve assembled at Prime Video,” said Derek Haas. “I love making shows that keep you on the edge of your seat with nonstop action, drama, surprises, and suspense, and I can’t wait to work with Jensen and for everyone to see Countdown.”
With this talented duo working together, we are in for something special, something that based off of how long Haas’s previous shows have gone, could go the the distance. Crime, drama, thrilling adventures. A signature trait for Haas and Ackles. The countdown has officially begun.
Fangirl and Writer with a huge passion for entertainment.