O’Shea Jackson Jr. has stepped in as the lead in the upcoming Apple TV+ series, Swagger, produced by Kevin Durant. Winston Duke initially held the role, but pulled out after suffering an injury on-set. As described, the series “draws inspiration from Durant’s childhood playing Amateur Athletic Union basketball in metropolitan Washington, D.C.” Furthermore, Jackson’s character is “a youth basketball coach and former star player.”
“Thank you to Imagine, CBS and Apple TV for the opportunity to have collaborated on this project,” Duke told Variety.
“As I work toward a full recovery in the coming months, I look forward to joining everyone in future endeavors. Congratulations to O’Shea – I have no doubt that he’ll shine in this role,” Duke continued.
“I’m thrilled to be involved with such a profound and impactful project that stands for family, explores the development and growth of today’s youth, involves the game of basketball and most importantly addresses such key social issues which are tackled throughout the series,” Jackson Jr. said.
“Swagger is an opportunity to explore a fresh, multi-dimensional character under the guidance of an amazing director like Reggie Rock and his team on a daily basis,” he continued.
The series has no release date or full cast yet. However, Nijla Mu’min will write for the show. Meanwhile, Reggie Rock Bythewood will act as director and show runner.
