American Hostage Anthology Series Starring Jon Hamm Sets World Premiere At TIFF
The psychological thriller series, starring Jon Hamm and Giovanni Ribisi, will debut at the Toronto Film Festival's Primetime Program this fall.

- Show
- American Hostage
- Network
- MGM+
- Status
- ordered
- Season
- Season 1
- Window
- Fall 2026
“thrust into the middle of a life-or- death crisis when hostage-taker Tony Kiritsis (Ribisi) demands to be interviewed on his popular radio news program.”
The upcoming thriller anthology series "American Hostage," starring Jon Hamm and Giovanni Ribisi, is set to world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, according to Deadline. The series will debut as part of the festival's Primetime Program.
What is 'American Hostage' about?
Set in the 1970s, the psychological thriller tells the true story of Fred Heckman, a beloved Indianapolis radio reporter played by Jon Hamm. He is thrust into a life-or-death crisis when hostage-taker Tony Kiritsis, portrayed by Giovanni Ribisi, demands to be interviewed on his popular radio news program.
The series is co-created and executive produced by Shawn Ryan (The Night Agent) and Eileen Myers (Big Love). It is based on the first season of the scripted podcast of the same name. Additional cast members include Mireille Enos, Kristoffer Polaha, and William Jackson Harper.
Following its festival premiere, American Hostage will debut exclusively on MGM+ in the United States and on Crave in Canada. The release is scheduled for this fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who else stars in 'American Hostage'?
The series features a strong supporting cast including Mireille Enos as Barbara Heckman, Kristoffer Polaha as Dick Hall, William Jackson Harper as Ben Hairston, Jonathan Tucker, and Kat Cunning.
Is 'American Hostage' a limited series?
Yes. It is structured as an anthology series, meaning it will focus on a different true-life hostage case each season. The first season adapts the story from its source podcast.
Who is directing the series?
Adam Arkin and Nina Lopez Corrado serve as the series directors for the first season. They are also executive producers on the project.
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