Jamie Foxx to Play Mike Tyson on TV Biopic Series from Martin Scorsese

Jamie Foxx will play Mike Tyson and executive produce alongside the legendary boxer and Martin Scorsese. Kevin Winter/Getty Images; John Lamparski/Getty Images; Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

Jamie Foxx is taking a bite out of Mike Tyson's life for his next major project.

Martin Scorsese will executive-produce the Oscar-winning actor's turn as the boxing legend in the upcoming biographical limited series Tyson, billed as an authorized chronicle of the namesake sportsman's life.

Foxx will star on and produce the series alongside Scorsese, Antoine Fuqua, and Rick Yorn, with the real-life Tyson's Legends Only League producing as well.

Jamie Foxx will play Mike Tyson and executive produce alongside the legendary boxer and Martin Scorsese. Kevin Winter/Getty Images; John Lamparski/Getty Images; Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

The project is set to span Tyson's life as he rises to become "one of the most legendary boxing figures of all time," per a press release.

"I have been looking to tell my story for quite some time," Tyson said in a statement. "With the recent launch of Legends Only League and the excitement from fans following my return to the ring, now feels like the perfect moment. I look forward to collaborating with Martin, Antoine, Jamie, and the entire creative team to bring audiences a series that not only captures my professional and personal journey but also inspires and entertains."

Tyson made worldwide headlines when he became the youngest ever heavyweight champion in boxing history in 1986 at the age of 20.

He remained a major force in boxing for years and is widely considered one of the greatest heavyweight fighters of all time.

His life outside the ring, however, attracted even more attention, with Tyson becoming infamous for his wild exploits.

He was also accused of mental and physical abuse by his wife, Robin Givens, and was convicted of rape in 1992, ultimately serving about three years in prison.

Tyson has made a comeback of sorts in recent years, appearing in projects like “The Hangover” film franchise as himself and performing in a one-man show on Broadway.

He has also been open about his struggles with mental illness and substance abuse. Most recently, Tyson fought an eight-round exhibition fight against Roy Jones Jr. in November, which ended in a draw.

A premiere date and network is yet to be announced.

March 24, 2021