Brian Tyree Henry to Star in Upcoming Apple Film 'Running'

The actor will play a homeless high school running prodigy in the new drama.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:41am

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Brian Tyree Henry has been cast in the lead role of the upcoming Apple film 'Running.' The movie, based on an original story by director Gavin O'Connor, follows a homeless high school running prodigy who uses his athletic gifts to outrun his troubled past and find a new family. Henry, known for his acclaimed performances in series like 'Dope Thief' and films like 'Causeway,' will star opposite actor Spike Fearn in the drama.

Why it matters

Brian Tyree Henry has emerged as one of the most versatile and acclaimed actors of his generation, earning Emmy and Academy Award nominations for his powerful dramatic work. His attachment to 'Running' continues Apple's strategy of attracting top talent for its growing slate of original films, further establishing the tech giant as a serious player in the movie business.

The details

Running is based on an original story by director Gavin O'Connor, who said he was inspired to build a narrative around 'a homeless kid who doesn't have a place in the world.' The script was written by Bill Dubuque, and the film will be produced by the production company Makeready and sportswear brand Nike.

  • Brian Tyree Henry was cast in the lead role in April 2026.

The players

Brian Tyree Henry

An acclaimed actor known for his roles in the series 'Dope Thief' and the film 'Causeway,' which earned him an Academy Award nomination.

Gavin O'Connor

The director of 'Running,' who came up with the original story for the film about a homeless high school running prodigy.

Bill Dubuque

The screenwriter who adapted O'Connor's original story for the 'Running' script.

Makeready

The production company behind 'Running.'

Nike

The sportswear brand that is also producing 'Running.'

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What they’re saying

“I started thinking about building a story around a homeless kid who doesn't have a place in the world. No love. No friends. No family. The only home he knows is the streets. It felt like a great place to begin a character's journey and tell an underdog story about the human spirit.”

— Gavin O'Connor, Director

The takeaway

Brian Tyree Henry's casting in 'Running' continues his impressive run of acclaimed dramatic performances, and Apple's investment in the project further solidifies the tech company's ambitions to become a major player in the film industry.