The legendary crime drama New Jack City is making a comeback as a TV series in 2025, with Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown leading the cast. The series, inspired by the 1991 classic starring Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, and Chris Rock, aims to bring a fresh yet gritty perspective on the rise and fall of drug empires in urban America. With an estimated production budget of $80 million, the show promises high-quality cinematography, intense action sequences, and a deep dive into the complex world of crime and power struggles.
Slated for a streaming and cable network release, New Jack City: The Series is expected to drop in late 2025. The showrunners and producers have teased a mix of nostalgia and modern storytelling, capturing the raw essence of the original film while adapting to contemporary themes. Sterling K. Brown’s casting as the series’ lead signals a more layered and dramatic approach, possibly exploring the rise of a new kingpin or law enforcement officer caught in the battle against crime.
The original New Jack City, directed by Mario Van Peebles, was a cultural phenomenon that highlighted the crack epidemic and the impact of drug trade on Black communities. The series aims to expand on these themes, integrating social and political issues relevant today. With an expected high viewership on streaming platforms and strong promotional backing, industry insiders believe the show could become one of the most successful crime dramas of the decade.
