Jensen Ackles leads new crime series Rules of Prey

Jensen Ackles is taking the lead in another major television project after being cast as Lucas Davenport in the new crime thriller Rules of Prey due to air in 2027.

MGM+ confirmed the eight-episode series on 23 September 2026, with fresh attention around the project as Ackles returned to television in Tracker season four on 4 October.

Ackles will also executive produce the adaptation, which is based on John Sandford's long-running Prey novels. Production is beginning in Toronto, although MGM+ has not yet announced a premiere date.

What is Rules of Prey about?

The story follows former Minneapolis detective Lucas Davenport after he is pulled back towards law enforcement by a series of murders. The killer appears to be targeting Davenport psychologically as well as committing the crimes, turning the investigation into an increasingly personal confrontation.

Davenport is one of crime fiction's longest-running recurring investigators. Sandford introduced him in the novel Rules of Prey in 1989, before expanding the character across dozens of further books.

Who is making the new series?

Bruce Terris created the television adaptation and will serve as showrunner. Daniel Sackheim is directing the opening two episodes, while Sandford is also involved in the production as a co-producer.

Ackles joining as executive producer gives him a role behind the camera as well as playing Davenport. The actor has increasingly combined starring roles with production responsibilities across his recent television work.

Where will Rules of Prey be available?

The series is planned for MGM+ in the UK and Ireland alongside the United States and several other international territories. No confirmed launch date has been announced as of 4 October 2026, but will air in 2027.

Image credits: Marilla Sicilia