Imagine reliving the electrifying moment when the U.S. Women's Soccer Team clinched World Cup glory in 1999—now Netflix is stacking its cast with fresh talent to bring that legend to life!
In an exclusive update, Netflix's highly anticipated drama The 99’ers has just welcomed six dynamic new actors to portray iconic members of the 1999 U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. These additions include Julia McDermott, known for her compelling role in Women of the Movement; Shaunette Renée Wilson, who dazzled in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny; Perry Mattfeld from Chad Powers; Annabel O’Hagan of Fallout; Lizzy Greene, starring in Ransom Canyon; and Isabelle Fuhrman, famous for Orphan. Each brings a unique energy that promises to capture the grit and heart of these soccer pioneers.
Here's how they're stepping into history: McDermott takes on the role of steadfast defender Brandi Chastain, whose iconic celebration became a symbol of triumph. Wilson embodies goalkeeper Briana Scurry, the unbreakable last line of defense who made crucial saves under immense pressure. Mattfeld portrays forward and midfielder Michelle Akers, a powerhouse known for her relentless scoring and midfield dominance despite battling chronic fatigue. O’Hagan plays Carla Overbeck, the steady captain who led the '99 World Cup squad with leadership and poise. Greene slips into the shoes of midfielder Kristine Lilly, the all-time leading cap holder whose endurance and skill were unmatched. And Fuhrman depicts defender Joy Fawcett, a defensive rock who balanced motherhood with elite athleticism.
As we broke first, Zoey Deutch anchors the story as Marla Messing, the visionary U.S. Women’s soccer executive who orchestrated the 1999 World Cup—a tournament that shattered attendance records with packed stadiums and drew record-breaking TV audiences, proving women's sports could dominate the global stage. Emily Bader and Emilia Jones round out key players as Mia Hamm, the goal-scoring legend, and Julie Foudy, the charismatic leader, respectively. Alessandro Nivola steps in as Head Coach Tony DiCicco, the strategist behind their improbable run.
But here's where it gets controversial... Drawing from Jeré Longman's 2000 HarperPerennial book The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World, The 99’ers dives into that fateful 1999 season. Picture this: the team defies skeptics and injuries to face China in the World Cup final under a blazing sun, before 93,000 roaring fans in the Rose Bowl. It all boils down to a heart-pounding penalty kick shootout—Brandt Chastain's winning kick sends the crowd into frenzy, captivating millions and sparking a revolution in women's athletics. This victory didn't just win a trophy; it challenged stereotypes, boosted funding for girls' soccer, and inspired generations. And this is the part most people miss: Did it truly level the playing field for women in sports, or was it more hype than lasting change?
Nicole Kassell helms the direction, working from a screenplay crafted by Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges. The project originated with writers Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio. Production is led by Liza Chasin of 3Dot Productions (under their Netflix deal), alongside Hayley Stool and Ross Greenburg, with executive producers Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith ensuring authenticity.
For representation: McDermott is with CAA, D2 Management, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole; Wilson by CAA, Monica Villarreal, and Fox Rothschild; Mattfeld by Innovative; O’Hagan by MJ Management, Stewart Talent, and Sloane Offer Weber & Dern; Greene by Verve, Brave Artists Management, and Gang, Tyre, Ramer; Fuhrman by UTA, Luber Roklin, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman.
What do you think—will The 99’ers capture the raw emotion of that '99 triumph, or risk romanticizing history? Does this cast nail the icons, or are there better choices out there? Drop your takes in the comments—agree, disagree, or share your bold casting picks!
