Ronaldo’s new TV drama gets football fans curious

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is taking his influence beyond the pitch, stepping into television production with a series titled Day 1s. The Portuguese forward announced on November 12 that production had begun, describing it as his first television show.

The project is being developed by UR-Marv Studios, the production company Ronaldo co-founded with British filmmaker Matthew Vaughn in 2025. Vaughn is known for directing the Kingsman franchise. The series has received a 10-episode order from Paramount+, according to industry publication Broadcast.

Day 1s is set in English football and follows a gifted young player who fulfils his ambition of joining Premier League club Brentford FC. He brings along the friends who supported him before fame and success, known as his “Day 1s”. The story explores friendship, loyalty and the pressures of professional football.

Actor Damian Lewis is set to star, while former Arsenal and France forward Thierry Henry is attached as an executive producer. British rapper Dave is also associated with the project. Vaughn directed the pilot episode, while filmmaker Dan Mazer will serve as showrunner. Ronaldo will executive-produce the series.

Ronaldo’s move reflects a wider global interest among athletes in the entertainment industry. For many sports stars, film and television offer opportunities to tell stories shaped by their experiences, build businesses beyond competition and reach audiences who may not follow their sport. Their names can attract attention and investment, while partnerships with filmmakers bring production expertise.

The announcement has drawn attention from fans because it gives Ronaldo a different role from the one they know on the field. Rather than being the central player in a match, he will help shape a scripted story about the people, relationships and ambitions surrounding the game.

Ronaldo said some of football’s most powerful stories happen away from the pitch, pointing to dreams, ambition, loyalty and sacrifice as themes behind the project.

A release date has not been announced. With Ronaldo, Vaughn and Henry involved, Day 1s brings together football experience and screen production, marking a new business chapter for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.