Netflix Releases First Look at Drama-Action Series 'Man on Fire'

The seven-episode season stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as a former Special Forces mercenary struggling with PTSD.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 9:50pm

Netflix has released the first look at the upcoming action-drama series 'Man on Fire,' set to premiere on April 30. The series is based on A.J. Quinnell's book series of the same name and tells the story of John Creasy, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary who is now plagued with intense PTSD. Determined to overcome his personal demons, he sets out on a path to redemption, but finds himself back in the fight before he can adjust to his new life.

Why it matters

The series is the latest high-profile drama from Netflix, which continues to invest in prestige programming to attract and retain subscribers. 'Man on Fire' also marks a significant role for Abdul-Mateen II, who has been steadily building his profile with acclaimed performances in shows like 'Watchmen' and films like 'Candyman'.

The details

The seven-episode season of 'Man on Fire' also stars Billie Boullet, Bobby Cannavale, Alice Braga, Scoot McNairy, and Paul Ben-Victor. Writer and showrunner Kyle Killen will executive produce, along with Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan, and Natalie Lehmann for New Regency Productions; Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Tracey Cook for Chernin Entertainment; Kyle Killen and Scott Pennington for Chapter Eleven; and Stacy Perskie for RedRum. Steven Caple Jr., who will direct the first two episodes, will also serve as an executive producer.

  • The seven-episode season of 'Man on Fire' is set to premiere on Netflix on April 30, 2026.

The players

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

An American actor who will star as the lead character, John Creasy, in the Netflix series 'Man on Fire'.

Kyle Killen

The writer and showrunner for the Netflix series 'Man on Fire'.

Steven Caple Jr.

The director of the first two episodes of the Netflix series 'Man on Fire' and an executive producer on the show.

New Regency Productions

The production company behind the Netflix series 'Man on Fire', along with Chernin Entertainment and other partners.

Netflix

The streaming platform that will premiere the drama-action series 'Man on Fire'.

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The takeaway

The release of 'Man on Fire' marks Netflix's continued investment in high-profile, prestige dramas that can attract and retain subscribers. The series also provides a significant leading role for Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who has been steadily building his profile in the industry.