LaKeith Stanfield Replaces Jonathan Majors in ’48 Hours in Vegas’

A high-profile biopic about a legendary NBA player’s wild escapade has recast its lead role. LaKeith Stanfield steps in to portray Dennis Rodman in ’48 Hours in Vegas’, replacing Jonathan Majors. The film chronicles Rodman’s infamous 48-hour trip to Las Vegas during the 1998 NBA Finals while playing for the Chicago Bulls.

The project comes from director Rick Famuyiwa, known for ‘Dope’ and episodes of ‘The Mandalorian’. Producers include Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and Aditya Sood through their Lord Miller banner. Lionsgate handles distribution, with production expected to begin soon after the casting change.

Majors was originally attached to the role in 2023. His departure follows legal issues that impacted multiple projects. Stanfield, an Oscar nominee for ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’, brings recent credits from ‘The Book of Clarence’ and voicing characters in animated features.

The script draws from Rodman’s accounts of the mid-finals break. He left the Bulls amid tension with coach Phil Jackson and teammate Michael Jordan. Rodman partied extensively before returning to contribute to Chicago’s championship win against the Utah Jazz.

Rodman earned five NBA championships across careers with the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks. He secured Defensive Player of the Year honors twice and led the league in rebounds for seven consecutive seasons. His eccentric personality extended to media appearances and wrestling.

Stanfield’s casting aligns with the film’s comedic yet dramatic tone. Famuyiwa described the story as exploring fame, rebellion, and redemption through Rodman’s lens. The project gained attention for its behind-the-scenes look at the Bulls’ dynasty era.

Supporting cast details remain unannounced. The film aims to capture 1990s Las Vegas culture alongside basketball pressures. Rodman has expressed support for biographical depictions in past interviews.

This marks another sports-related role in Stanfield’s diverse filmography. He previously appeared in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ elements and voiced roles in sports-themed animations. The recasting keeps momentum for a planned theatrical release.

’48 Hours in Vegas’ joins growing interest in 1990s NBA stories. Recent documentaries and series covered the era’s icons extensively. Rodman’s trip became lore through accounts in ‘The Last Dance’ Netflix series.

Production navigated industry shifts post-strikes. Famuyiwa balances the project with other commitments. Stanfield’s involvement adds awards pedigree to the ensemble-driven narrative.