Jake Gyllenhaal to Star in Sports Film 'Play by Play' for Amazon MGM

The film is based on a pitch from writer Chris McCoy and will be produced by Gyllenhaal's Nine Stories banner.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Amazon MGM Studios has acquired the sports pitch 'Play by Play' from writer Chris McCoy, with Jake Gyllenhaal attached to star and produce the film through his Nine Stories production company. The plot details are being kept under wraps, but the project reunites Gyllenhaal with Amazon MGM after his recent starring roles in the 'Road House' remake and upcoming projects.

Why it matters

This deal continues Gyllenhaal's growing relationship with Amazon MGM, as the streamer looks to build out its sports-focused film and television slate. McCoy is also an in-demand writer, having worked on projects for major studios and streamers, making this a high-profile acquisition for the company.

The details

Under a first-look film deal at Amazon MGM, Gyllenhaal previously starred in their 2024 remake of 'Road House,' which broke viewership records, and has returned for a forthcoming sequel. He's also in business with the streamer on other projects like the dramedy 'Honeymoon with Harry' and the political thriller 'Code Black.' McCoy has written for Marvel, Disney, Fox, DreamWorks, Paramount and Laika, and has published two novels with Knopf. Religion of Sports, known for sports documentaries, is also producing 'Play by Play.'

  • The 'Play by Play' pitch was acquired by Amazon MGM in March 2026.

The players

Jake Gyllenhaal

An acclaimed actor who is producing and starring in 'Play by Play' through his Nine Stories production company. He has a growing relationship with Amazon MGM after starring in their 'Road House' remake and other upcoming projects.

Chris McCoy

The writer who pitched the sports film 'Play by Play' to Amazon MGM. He has written for major studios and streamers, and has published two novels.

Religion of Sports

The production company known for sports and pop culture documentaries that is also producing 'Play by Play.'

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What’s next

With the pitch acquired, the next steps will be for McCoy to write the screenplay and for Gyllenhaal and the producing team to further develop the project for Amazon MGM.

The takeaway

This deal showcases Jake Gyllenhaal's continued success in working with Amazon MGM, as the streamer looks to build out its sports-focused film and television slate. The involvement of in-demand writer Chris McCoy and production company Religion of Sports also adds to the high-profile nature of the project.