Jensen Ackles steers MGM+ thriller Rules of Prey, unleashing danger

Jensen Ackles has been tapped to both star and executive produce an eight‑episode drama for MGM+, titled *Rules of Prey*. The series adapts the first novel in John Sandford’s long‑running Prey book series and will begin filming in Toronto this month.

It is slated to debut on the streaming service in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile.

In *Rules of Prey*, Ackles portrays Lucas Davenport, a former Minneapolis Police Department detective who has been pulled back into law enforcement to tackle a serial killer who targets him specifically.

The character is described as a “righteous avenging angel” whose sharp mind and unconventional investigative methods forced his resignation from the department. The show promises a psychological duel between Davenport and a similarly intelligent adversary, with each suspecting the other’s motives.

Showrunner Bruce Terris—who also serves as an executive producer—will adapt Sandford’s narrative into a contemporary thriller. Terris has an overall deal at MGM Television and previously won an Emmy for his work on *DTF St. Louis*.

Daniel Sackheim, known for directing *Jack Ryan*, *True Detective* and *Ozark*, will direct the first two episodes and also act as executive producer. Sandford himself, writing under the pseudonym John Camp, will co‑produce the series.

MGM Television and Take 5 Productions are backing the eight‑episode season, while Modern Literary Arts, Howard Braunstein, Michael Jaffe, John Requa, Glenn Ficarra and John Weber are listed as executive producers. The production also brings together a roster of experienced talent from both behind‑the‑camera and creative writing positions.

## Background & Context

Ackles’ partnership with MGM+ and its parent company Amazon MGM Studios has deepened with this new venture. He already stars in and executive produces *Vought Rising*, the *The Boys* prequel that will debut in 2027, reprising his role as Soldier Boy.

In addition, Ackles has helmed Amazon’s *Countdown* and will return to CBS’s *Tracker* for its fourth season as Russell Shaw. His recent work demonstrates a pattern of juggling multiple high‑profile projects while maintaining a strong presence in the streaming landscape.

Bruce Terris’ track record includes the Emmy‑winning *DTF St. Louis* and the well‑received *Perpetual Grace, LTD* for Epix, both of which earned praise from MGM+ leadership. His overall deal with MGM Television underscores the studio’s confidence in his ability to translate complex narratives to the screen.

Terris is represented by CAA, Modern Literary Arts and Lichter, Grossman, Nichols.

Daniel Sackheim brings a portfolio of critically acclaimed series such as *Prime Video’s Jack Ryan*, *True Detective*, *Ozark* and *Better Call Saul*. His experience in directing high‑stakes dramas positions him to guide the first episodes of *Rules of Prey* with a sharp, cinematic vision.

Sackheim is represented by Independent Artist Group, Industry Entertainment and Jared Levine.

John Camp, writing as John Sandford, has built a diverse portfolio that includes the Prey series, the Kidd novels, the Virgil Flowers series and several YA titles co‑authored with his wife Michele Cook. His reputation as a Pulitzer Prize‑winning journalist lends credibility to the source material. Camp is represented by CAA.

## What People Are Saying

“Jensen Ackles’ classic leading man charisma, combined with Bruce Terris’ skillful adaptation of John Sandford’s enduringly popular Prey series is an excellent fit for MGM+,” said Michael Wright, global head of MGM+.

Wright added that the series “delves into the psychological depth and suspense that made Sandford’s novels unmissable reading and continues MGM+’s commitment to bringing classic Hollywood storytelling to modern audiences.” The statement underscores the studio’s confidence in both Ackles’ star power and Terris’ direction.

## What Happens Next

Filming is scheduled to begin this month in Toronto, with the production crew moving into sets that will recreate Minneapolis’s gritty streets.

Although no specific release date has been announced, *Rules of Prey* will stream on MGM+ across a wide international slate, including the U.S., U.K., Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile.

Fans can expect a launch that aligns with MGM+’s broader strategy to deliver compelling original content to global audiences.

As Ackles continues to expand his role within Amazon MGM Studios—balancing acting and executive production duties across multiple series—the upcoming premiere of *Rules of Prey* signals his growing influence in the streaming era.

The collaboration between seasoned creators and a proven source novel sets the stage for a thriller that promises intense psychological intrigue and strong character dynamics.