Introducing the stars of Netflix’s “The 99’ers”

Last spring, Netflix announced they are developing a feature film called ‘The 99’ers’ based on the USWNT that won the 1999 World Cup. It is based on a book written by Jeré Longman, The Girls of Summer: The US Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World. The film will follow the USWNT’s journey to the World Cup title at the Rose Bowl and its impact on women’s sports. 

3dot Productions, alongside a star-studded production team, will lead the film, and Emmy-award winner Nicole Kassell will direct. The film’s script will be co-written by Katie Lovejoy, who’s written multiple Netflix films, and Dana Stevens, who’s known for writing The Woman King. 

As “The 99’ers” is set to start filming at the end of the month, cast announcements have the women’s soccer community buzzing about the upcoming film. 

Emily Bader as Mia Hamm

Breakout star Emily Bader was the first confirmed member of the cast to be announced. She will play star forward Mia Hamm, who is widely known as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Bader is known for her roles in “My Lady Jane,” “Charmed,” and most recently, Netflix’s “People We Meet On Vacation.” 

Zoey Deutch as Marla Messing

Actress and producer Zoey Deutch is set to portray Marla Messing, a former attorney who left her career in law to become a sports executive. Messing served as the president of the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Organizing Committee and helped elevate the FIFA Women’s World Cup to a global sensation. Deutch is best known for her roles in “Zombieland: Double Tap,” “Before I Fall,” and another Netflix original, “Set It Up.” 

Julia McDermott as Brandi Chastain

Theatre actress Julia McDermott will play defender Brandi Chastain. Chastain scored the winning penalty to secure the World Cup championship, and her celebration became iconic around the sports world. McDermott is known for her starring role in the comedy play “Weather Girl,” which played at St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn. 

Emilia Jones as Julie Foudy

Oscar winner Emilia Jones is set to portray midfielder Julie Foudy, who is a multi-time captain for the USWNT. After her playing career, Foudy also became a prominent soccer analyst and dedicated advocate for women in sports. Jones is known for her roles in “CODA” and “The Running Man.” 

Feature image via Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images.

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