Prime Video has officially greenlit "Countdown," a thrilling drama series helmed by renowned One Chicago veteran Derek Haas, with Supernatural alum Jensen Ackles starring in the lead role. This ambitious project, coming from Amazon MGM Studios, has received a rare and coveted 13-episode order for a streaming series, testament to its captivating storyline and exceptional cast.
This marks the debut series under an exclusive overall deal Haas has inked with Amazon MGM Studios following his departure from Wolf Entertainment. The project was tailor-made for Ackles, who last year signed a first-look deal with Amazon MGM Studios for Chaos Machine Prods., his company with wife Danneel Ackles, after joining the cast of the hit Prime Video series The Boys.
"Countdown" kicks off with a mysterious murder committed in broad daylight, leading to the recruitment of LAPD officer Mark Meachum (Ackles) to join a clandestine task force composed of undercover agents from all branches of law enforcement. As the team delves deeper into the investigation, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens the safety of millions. The team must overcome their personal agendas and unite to save the city.
"We are thrilled to reunite with Derek Haas," said Vernon Sanders, Head of Television at Amazon MGM Studios. "He possesses a remarkable ability to captivate audiences with his thrilling storytelling and heartfelt narratives. We eagerly await the opportunity for Prime Video's global audience to experience this dynamic series, led by the exceptionally talented Jensen Ackles."
Both Sanders and Jen Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, have a long-standing relationship with Haas, having worked together during their tenure at NBC when he was developing One Chicago.
"I'm excited to be collaborating again with Jen Salke, Vernon Sanders, and the brilliant team they've assembled at Prime Video," Haas said. "I love creating shows that keep audiences on the edge of their seats with nonstop action, drama, surprises, and suspense. I'm looking forward to working with Jensen and bringing 'Countdown' to life for everyone to enjoy."
As the creator, Haas serves as executive producer and showrunner for "Countdown." The 13-episode order is a nod to the longer broadcast runs Haas is accustomed to, in contrast to the typical eight-episode seasons of streaming drama series, with ten episodes being a rarity.
"My experience working with the Prime Video team on The Boys was incredible, and I'm delighted to continue that partnership with 'Countdown,'" Ackles said. "I can't wait to join Derek and the rest of our 'Countdown' family to bring this captivating story to life."
Over the span of a decade, Haas forged a fruitful partnership with Dick Wolf and his Wolf Entertainment, jointly crafting and/or serving as executive producer for five captivating series: Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, Chicago Med, FBI, and the international thriller FBI: International. His professional representation is handled by UTA and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller.
Ackles is renowned for his starring role in the long-running WB/CW hit Supernatural. He not only executive produced but also made recurring appearances in the prequel series The Winchesters, further extending his legacy in the franchise. Besides his noteworthy performance in The Boys, Ackles also starred as a series regular in ABC's Big Sky and recently made a guest appearance on CBS' Tracker, portraying the brother of Colter (played by Justin Hartley). Ackles' professional representation is entrusted to Gersh and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole.
