MGM+ announced it’s ordering American Hostage (working title), a new anthology series from Shawn Ryan (The Night Agent, S.W.A.T.) and Eileen Myers (Big Love, Mad Dogs).

Jon Hamm will star as Fred Heckman.
Production starts this Fall in Winnipeg.
Sony Pictures Television will handle international distribution.

What’s American Hostage About?

Based on the podcast of the same name, the 8-episode series is a psychological thriller set in 1970s Indianapolis.

The story:

• Fred Heckman (Hamm), a beloved local radio reporter, is pulled into a life-or-death hostage crisis.
• A gunman, Tony Kiritsis, demands Heckman broadcast his side of the story live on air.
• Things spiral from there.

Who’s Behind It?

• Co-creators and executive producers: Shawn Ryan and Eileen Myers
• Executive producers: Jon Hamm, Connie Tavel, Sharon Hoffman, Marney Hochman (MiddKid Productions), Shawn Christensen, Gabriel Mason

Jon Hamm’s Latest Work

Hamm stays busy post-Mad Men:

• Landman (Paramount+)
• Grimsburg (FOX, animated)
• Fargo Season 5 (FX) — Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG nominations
• Films: Top Gun: Maverick, Confess, Fletch, Mean Girls
• TV: Your Friends and Neighbors, The Morning Show, Good Omens

He’ll also executive produce American Hostage.

American Hostage should air on MGM+ sometime late in 2026