It’s been a hot topic for over a year now, and Netflix is on the verge of officially unveiling an intriguing new series centered on Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) and Caroline Ellison, the embattled former leaders of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange. As the hype builds, here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated project.
Oscar-winning writer Graham Moore, known for his work on The Imitation Game, is set to pen and co-showrun the series alongside Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions. This collaboration underlines Netflix’s commitment to producing compelling, high-quality content. James Ponsoldt, a seasoned director with credits in shows like Shameless and Parenthood, is lined up to direct at least one episode, while Jacqueline Hoyt, who has worked on acclaimed series like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, will also co-showrun the eight-episode series slated to start production this summer.
The narrative will delve into the whirlwind life of Sam Bankman-Fried, once celebrated as the “Crypto King.” Despite raising billions for FTX, his standing crumbled dramatically as dubious practices came to light, leading to his arrest and a 25-year prison sentence.
Netflix’s interest in the story of Bankman-Fried and Ellison became clear early in 2024, when it acquired five articles from Vox Media detailing the notorious saga. Among this collection are pieces exploring the origins of SBF’s financial empire and the intricate relationship between him and Ellison, who also played a key role at FTX. The series promises to intertwine their personal dynamics with the high-stakes drama of the cryptocurrency world.
The compelling yet tragic fall of SBF and the FTX scandal has captured widespread media attention, making it a perfect subject for dramatization. With a slew of projects underway including a limited series by Amazon Prime and a feature film based on Michael Lewis’s upcoming book, Going Infinite this story is poised to be an integral narrative in the tapestry of contemporary financial history.
The excitement surrounding Netflix’s upcoming series is palpable. Social media platforms are abuzz with speculation about casting choices. Notably, Ozark star Julia Garner is reportedly close to landing the role of Caroline Ellison, while Evan Peters, celebrated for his transformative roles in American Horror Story and Netflix’s DAHMER, was previously in discussions for portraying SBF himself. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how the series will portray the complex relationship that unfolded amidst a financial crisis of monumental proportions.
As we continue to receive updates, it’s clear that this series is more than just a retelling of events; it’s a cultural phenomenon reflecting our times.
Are you eagerly anticipating how Netflix will unfold this dramatic tale? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
