The trailer for the upcoming series on HBO Max titled, “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty,” has dropped. As expected Will Ferrell who was originally in talks to portray late Lakers’ owner Dr. Jerry Buss is nowhere to be seen in the preview. Instead, we get John C. Reilly as Buss. It seems that the fact that Adam McKay who is directing and producing the project didn’t decide to cast Ferrell in the role has led to major tension in the relationship. With reports indicating that the duo behind the “Anchorman” film franchise has essentially ended their friendship.
With or without Ferrell the series seems to have effectively been able to capture that 80s LA vibe. Critics are pointing out that John C. Reilly’s characterization as Buss is way more life-like than anything that Will Ferrell would’ve been able to pull off.
What The Series Is Going To Cover
‘There’s two things in this world that make me believe in God: It’s sex and basketball,’
The Colorful Cast of Former Lakers Players
It’s not just Dr. Buss who makes an appearance in the series of course. With former Lakers greats Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and even former player turned coach, turned executive Jerry West making an appearance in the series. Some relatively new actors in the Hollywood scene are potentially getting their big break in the series. With Solomon Hughes getting the nod to play the role of Abdul-Jabbar. Quincy Isaiah is stepping into the shoes of Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Who seems to be the main character that the series will be set to follow.