Lionsgate’s ‘John Rambo’ Welcomes New Cast Members and Kicks Off Production
Lionsgate has officially commenced production on John Rambo in Bangkok, Thailand, marking the beginning of a project that delves into the origins of one of cinema’s most iconic characters. The film features Noah Centineo in the lead role, with a cast that has recently expanded to include five additional actors.
Joining Centineo are yao, known for his role in Sinners, Jason Tobin from A Thousand Blows, Quincy Isaiah, recognized as Magic Johnson in Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Jefferson White of Yellowstone, and Tayme Thapthimthong, who portrayed Gaitok the security guard in The White Lotus.
John Rambo serves as a prequel, exploring the formative years of the legendary character long before the events of First Blood. Through this narrative, the film aims to provide insight into the experiences and principles that shaped Rambo into the complex figure audiences have come to know.
Thapthimthong’s prior credits include a role in The White Lotus, while Isaiah’s portrayal of Magic Johnson in Winning Time has garnered attention. White is set to appear in the upcoming The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, and yao appeared in Ryan Coogler’s Sinners as Bo Chow.
Noah Centineo leads the cast as the formidable Rambo, under the direction of Jalmari Helander, known for Sisu and Sisu: Road to Revenge. The screenplay is authored by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, with the film being produced by veterans Kevin King Templeton and Les Weldon, alongside Jonathan Yunger, Michael Disco, and Angela Russo-Otstot. Executive producers include renowned filmmakers Anthony and Joe Russo, Trevor Short, as well as Dallas Sonnier and Amanda Presmyk.
Erin Westerman, president of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed enthusiasm regarding the production kickoff, stating, “We’re thrilled to start production on John Rambo, which will allow both new audiences and existing fans to explore John Rambo’s roots, his principles, and most importantly, some incredible action, courtesy of Jalmari’s singular vision. And we’re so excited for Noah’s committed and powerful performance to show what forged this character into legend.”
With a talented cast and a focus on the rich backstory of its protagonist, John Rambo is poised to draw both long-time fans and new viewers when it eventually hits theaters.
