As a movie critic, I’m eagerly awaiting the premiere of “The Rainmaker,” the upcoming John Grisham television adaptation. Although it has already been adapted into a 1997 film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, starring Matt Damon as Rudy S. Baylor, this new version promises fresh insights. With an illustrious cast including Claire Danes, Jon Voight, Mary Kay Place, Mickey Rourke, Danny DeVito, Danny Glover, Roy Scheider, Virginia Madsen, and Teresa Wright in her final film role, the original “The Rainmaker” was well-received by critics and grossed over $45.9 million at the domestic box office. I’m curious to see how this new adaptation will measure up!
In June 2024, USA Network officially commissioned a television series based on The Rainmaker, marking their strategic return to scripted programming. This production is jointly backed by Lionsgate Television and Blumhouse Television. Michael Sietzman, known for his work in Code Black, assumes the role of showrunner and executive producer. David Gernert, John Grisham, and Jason Blum from Blumhouse are also listed among the executive producers.
The Rainmaker Latest News
The Premiere Is Coming Soon
It was just confirmed that ‘The Rainmaker’ is set to debut on August 15 at 10 PM Eastern Time on USA Network. Alongside this release date announcement, a trailer for the legal drama has been released. Furthermore, USA Network also revealed some initial photos showing main cast members. Additionally, Sietzman shared some insights about what makes the new adaptation of Grisham’s novel appealing to viewers.
Originally, “The Rainmaker” was John Grisham’s fastest-selling novel, later adapted into a movie, and now transformed into a television series. What continues to captivate audiences about this tale? Perhaps it’s the allure of the David-vs-Goliath legal drama, the risky love story, or the journey of self-discovery. For me, what stands out most is the characters. They leapt from the pages in John’s book and were a delight to further develop for our series. Additionally, Milo Callaghan, who portrays Rudy Baylor, is sure to be your next crush.
The Rainmaker Cast Details
It Features Some Familiar Faces
In this new adaptation of “The Rainmaker,” Milo Callaghan, who previously starred in “Rivals” and “Dune: Prophecy,” steps into the role of Rudy Baylor, originally played by Damon in the 1997 movie. Joining him will be John Slattery, famed for his portrayal of Roger Sterling in the iconic drama series “Mad Men.” He’ll portray Leo F. Drummond, a legal titan. Madison Iseman, known from “Jumanji: The Next Level,” will play Sarah Plankmore, Rudy’s former law school girlfriend. Lana Parrilla, best recognized from “The Lincoln Lawyer,” takes on the role of Jocelyn “Bruiser” Stone, Rudy’s superior at work.
In this legal drama, P.J. Byrne, known for his roles in “The Boys” and “Big Little Lies,” portrays Deck Shifflet, a tough-skinned lawyer who repeatedly failed the bar exam. Robyn Cara, from the series “Bodkin,” takes on the character of Kelly Riker, a woman entangled in an abusive relationship, sharing a neighborhood with Rudy.
| Character Name | Played By |
|---|---|
| Rudy Baylor | Milo Callaghan |
| Leo F. Drummond | John Slattery |
| Sarah Plankmore | Madison Iseman |
| Jocelyn “Bruiser” Stone | Lana Parrilla |
| Deck Shifflet | P.J. Byrne |
| Kelly Riker | Robyn Cara |
| Melvin Pritcher | Dan Fogler |
| Brad Noonan | Wade Briggs |
| Prince Thomas | Tommie Earl Jenkins |
Dan Fogler from “The Offer” portrays Melvin Pritcher, a nurse hiding a shocking secret that’s key to a wide-reaching conspiracy. Wade Briggs in “Foundation” is also significant, taking on the role of Brad Noonan, Leo’s enforcer. Lastly, Tommie Earl Jenkins from Netflix’s “Wednesday” adds to the cast as Prince Thomas, the proprietor of a bar where Rudy works.
The Rainmaker Story Details
Rudy Uncovers A Conspiracy
As a film enthusiast, I eagerly anticipate diving into the gripping tale of “The Rainmaker.” Stepping into the shoes of the protagonist, Rudy Baylor, a fresh law school graduate, I find myself thrust into an intense battle against the renowned lawyer Leo F. Drummond. But our rivalry doesn’t stem solely from a case; I had previously worked under Leo’s tutelage in the courtroom before an unexpected dismissal.
My journey doesn’t end there, though. Alongside my boss, Jocelyn “Bruiser” Stone, and the dedicated paralegal Deck Shifflet, we delve deep into the intricate web of mysteries surrounding the demise of our client’s son. Unraveling two conspiracies, we unearth secrets that promise to make this case far more than just another legal battle.
The Show Will Also Be Available To Stream
Season 1 of “The Rainmaker” includes 10 installments, with the initial episode set to debut on August 15. Subsequent episodes will become available for streaming on Peacock a week after they air on USA Network. This delay might be indicative of an effort to emphasize the cable channel as it refocuses its attention on scripted programming.
The Rainmaker Trailer
It Offers An Extended Preview
The trailer for the movie “The Rainmaker” lasts more than two minutes, depicting the legal drama with a touch of comedy compared to the film version. However, it’s clear that the suspenseful element will be prominent due to the central conspiracies. It shares similarities with “Suits,” another popular USA Network original series, which gained a fresh following in the U.S. after being added to Netflix around mid-2023. The story includes romance, humor, and a hero who might be biting off more than he can chew – we’ll see how it unfolds when it premieres this summer.
📺 Love staying updated with ScreenRant’s prime-time coverage? Sign up now for our weekly Network TV newsletter! Make sure to select ‘Network TV’ in your preferences, and you’ll receive exclusive behind-the-scenes insights from the stars and creators of your favorite shows.
Read More
- Gold Rate Forecast
- PI PREDICTION. PI cryptocurrency
- Mission: Impossible 8 Reveals Shocking Truth But Leaves Fans with Unanswered Questions!
- SteelSeries reveals new Arctis Nova 3 Wireless headset series for Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and PC
- Masters Toronto 2025: Everything You Need to Know
- Eddie Murphy Reveals the Role That Defines His Hollywood Career
- LPT PREDICTION. LPT cryptocurrency
- WCT PREDICTION. WCT cryptocurrency
- We Loved Both of These Classic Sci-Fi Films (But They’re Pretty Much the Same Movie)
- Elden Ring Nightreign Recluse guide and abilities explained
2025-06-06 01:00