Get ready to relive one of the most iconic moments in sports history—but this time, with a star-studded cast bringing it to life. Netflix’s ‘The 99’ers’ is expanding its roster, and the lineup is nothing short of impressive. In an exclusive update, the streaming giant has announced the addition of six powerhouse actresses to portray the legendary 1999 U.S. Women’s Soccer Team. Joining the cast are Julia McDermott (Women of the Movement), Shaunette Renée Wilson (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), Perry Mattfeld (Chad Powers), Annabel O’Hagan (Fallout), Lizzy Greene (Ransom Canyon), and Isabelle Fuhrman (Orphan). But here’s where it gets exciting: each actress will step into the cleats of a soccer icon, from Brandi Chastain to Briana Scurry, Michelle Akers, Carla Overbeck, Kristine Lilly, and Joy Fawcett. And this is the part most people miss—these roles aren’t just about acting; they’re about honoring the women who changed the game forever.
McDermott takes on the role of defender Brandi Chastain, whose celebratory jersey-tug became a symbol of victory. Wilson steps in as goalkeeper Briana Scurry, the backbone of the team’s defense. Mattfeld portrays the versatile forward/midfielder Michelle Akers, while O’Hagan embodies the leadership of team captain Carla Overbeck. Greene brings midfielder Kristine Lilly to life, and Fuhrman captures the tenacity of defender Joy Fawcett. Together, they’ll recreate the magic of the 1999 World Cup, where the U.S. team defied the odds in a heart-stopping penalty shootout against China, under the blazing sun and before 93,000 roaring fans.
Leading the charge is Zoey Deutch as Marla Messing, the trailblazing executive who helped make the 1999 World Cup a record-breaking phenomenon. Emily Bader and Emilia Jones join as soccer legends Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, with Alessandro Nivola as Head Coach Tony DiCicco. But here’s where it gets controversial: While the film celebrates the team’s triumph, it also raises questions about the ongoing fight for gender equality in sports. Did their victory truly level the playing field, or is there still ground to cover? The film, inspired by Jeré Longman’s The Girls of Summer, doesn’t shy away from these conversations.
Behind the scenes, Nicole Kassell directs from a script by Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges, with Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio as the project’s original writers. Liza Chasin produces for 3Dot Productions, alongside Hayley Stool, Ross Greenburg, and executive producers Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith. And this is the part that’ll spark debate: As we celebrate this historic team, are we doing enough to support women’s sports today? The 99’ers isn’t just a film—it’s a call to action. What do you think? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below.
For the talent reps, McDermott is with CAA, D2 Management, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole; Wilson is represented 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; and Fuhrman by UTA, Luber Roklin, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman. Stay tuned—this is one story you won’t want to miss.
