New Canadian Miniseries 'Hate the Player' Featuring Comedy Stars to Debut on Paramount+

New Canadian Miniseries Bringing Sports Drama to Life



The highly anticipated Canadian miniseries, 'Hate the Player: The Ben Johnson Story,' is all set to premiere in 2026 on Paramount+ and GameTV. A collaborative effort from New Metric Media and Bay Mills Studios, this six-episode series dives into the intriguing yet controversial history of Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson and the notorious doping scandal that altered the landscape of athletics.

The cast is remarkable, featuring Andrew "King Bach" Bachelor, renowned for his social media presence and acting chops, stepping into the shoes of U.S. sprinting legend Carl Lewis. Following the riveting rivalry between Lewis and Johnson, this storyline seeks not only to entertain but also to provide a satirical commentary on the world of competitive sports—particularly highlighting the 1988 Olympics and the fallout from the infamous race dubbed "The Dirtiest Race in History."

In addition to Bachelor, the roster includes Mark McKinney, celebrated for his work on acclaimed shows like Superstore and Kids in the Hall, as well as Karen Robinson from Schitt's Creek. Furthermore, Ennis Esmer, recognized for his performances in Blindspot, portrays Johnson's doctor, Jamie Astaphan, while Kristian Bruun and Malaika Hennie Hamadi round out the ensemble, adding fresh perspectives to this complex narrative.

Behind the Production


The brainchild of acclaimed writer, Anthony Q. Farrell, known for his projects like The Office and Run the Burbs, the series aims to create a nuanced look at Johnson's personal and professional journey. Farrell serves as both showrunner and executive producer along with other significant figures in the industry including New Metric Media CEO Mark Montefiore and director R.T. Thorne.

Johnson's own experience of becoming an overnight sensation only to witness his career plummet within seconds is a crucial theme of the series. Commenting on the process, Bachelor expressed that growing up in a household steeped in athletics—his father a sprinter in Jamaica—fuels his passion for the role. He shared, "It's truly in my blood. The rivalry between Ben Johnson and Carl Lewis is one of the most iconic in sports history. To be part of bringing that story to life is an incredible honor."

Comedy Meets Drama


Adding extra flair, the miniseries will incorporate a host of talented Canadian comedians, reinforcing the comedic elements intertwined with serious topics. With mentions of engaging cameos including WWE superstar Chelsea Green and Canadian NASCAR driver Amber Balcaen, the series promises an entertaining blend of drama, humor, and critique of sporting ethics.

New Metric Media, with a reputation for creating engaging programming, previously brought hits like Letterkenny and Children Ruin Everything to audiences. In this venture, they aim to create a production that not only entertains but sparks discourse surrounding the pressure athletes face and the moral ambiguities within competitive sports.

The involvement of Canadian sports figures adds authenticity to Hate the Player. Johnson himself contributed to the narrative, ensuring it reflects his experiences and the broader implications of the doping controversy within the sports community.

Release and Expectations


Scheduled for a simultaneous debut on GameTV and Paramount+ in early 2026, anticipation surrounding Hate the Player continues to grow among fans of sports and comedy alike. This miniseries stands poised to shed light on one of the most pivotal moments in Olympic history while exploring themes of personal ambition, rivalry, and ethics in athletics. The unique blend of comedic talent and compelling storytelling could make it a highlight in Canadian television programming.

As the release date approaches, audiences can expect more insights, trailers, and promotional content to engage viewers in the lead-up to one of the most intriguing Canadian productions yet.

Topics Entertainment & Media)

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