Netflix is developing a high-profile drama centered on the 1999 U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, featuring Alessandro Nivola in a key role that highlights his growing presence in major projects. The series, directed by Nicole Kassell, brings to life the team’s historic World Cup victory through compelling characters and memorable events.
The drama showcases the journey of the team as they secured a dramatic win in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, an iconic moment celebrated worldwide for its impact on women’s sports. This project also prominently features actress Emilia Jones, who will portray Julie Foudy, a long-standing midfielder and captain, while Zoey Deutch and Emily Bader play crucial roles.
Key Cast Members and Their Roles in The 99’ers
Alessandro Nivola will take on the role of Tony DiCicco, the team’s coach from 1994 to 1999, credited with leading the squad to 103 victories and the 1999 championship. Emilia Jones is cast as Julie Foudy, who was essential to the team’s success as midfielder, co-captain, and captain over nearly two decades.
Zoey Deutch will portray Marla Messing, the influential soccer executive credited with managing the groundbreaking 1999 World Cup event. Emily Bader assumes the role of star forward Mia Hamm, whose on-field prowess helped electrify the team’s performance.
Story Origins and Creative Team Behind the Series
The 99’ers is based on the 2000 HarperPerennial book The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World by Jeré Longman. The narrative centers on the climactic penalty shootout victory against China before a packed stadium of 93,000 fans, a defining moment for women’s sports globally.
Writing credits include Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges, with Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio originally developing the project. 3Dot Productions, led by producer Liza Chasin, is collaborating with Netflix, alongside producers Hayley Stool and Ross Greenburg. Executive producers include Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith.
Actors’ Recent Work and Industry Representation
Emilia Jones recently gained attention for her role in the HBO crime drama Task, created by Brad Ingelsby and starring Tom Pelphrey and Mark Ruffalo. She is set to appear next in A24’s Anthony Bourdain biopic Tony, alongside Dominic Sessa. Jones is represented by Brillstein Entertainment Partners, CAA, the UK’s Artist Rights Group, and attorney Chris Abramson.
Alessandro Nivola is currently visible as fashion legend Calvin Klein in FX’s Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. His recent film credits include Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist and Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door. His representation includes UTA, Range Media Partners, Tavistock Wood in the UK, and the law firm Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
The Cultural Impact and Future Prospects of The 99’ers
The story of the 1999 U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team remains a powerful and inspirational chapter in sports history, capturing the determination and spirit that led to a world championship. By dramatizing this victory through a well-crafted Netflix series, the project promises to introduce this pivotal moment to new audiences.
This drama not only celebrates a historic sporting achievement but also highlights the ongoing growth and recognition of women’s sports. With a talented cast and experienced creative team, the series is poised to become a significant addition to sports storytelling on television, potentially inspiring similar future productions.
