Netflix’s latest miniseries, Black Rabbit, premiered on September 18, 2025, offering viewers an intense blend of crime, drama, and family dynamics. The series follows two brothers, Jake and Vince Friedken, portrayed by Jude Law and Jason Bateman, respectively. Together, they open an upscale bar in Manhattan, only to find their lives unraveling as their pasts resurface. The show combines elements of suspense, betrayal, and redemption, set against the backdrop of New York City’s vibrant nightlife.
Jude Law as Jake Friedken
Jude Law takes on the role of Jake Friedken, the ambitious and seemingly upstanding brother who co-founds the Black Rabbit bar. Law’s portrayal captures Jake’s internal struggle as he grapples with the return of his estranged brother and the ensuing chaos. Known for his roles in The Talented Mr. Ripley and Sherlock Holmes, Law brings depth and nuance to the character, making Jake’s journey both compelling and relatable.
Jason Bateman as Vince Friedken
Jason Bateman portrays Vince Friedken, Jake’s troubled brother whose return to New York City sets the series’ events into motion. Vince’s past criminal activities threaten to destroy the life Jake has built. Bateman’s performance is marked by his signature blend of dry humor and underlying tension, reflecting Vince’s complex character. Fans of Bateman’s work in Ozark and Arrested Development will find his portrayal of Vince both familiar and refreshingly new.
Cleopatra Coleman as Estelle
Cleopatra Coleman plays Estelle, Jake’s confidante and the bar’s interior designer. Estelle’s role goes beyond aesthetics; she serves as a grounding force for Jake amidst the turmoil. Coleman’s performance adds a layer of sophistication and emotional depth to the series. Her previous work in Rebel Moon and Dopesick showcases her versatility as an actress.
Amaka Okafor as Roxie
Amaka Okafor portrays Roxie, the ambitious head chef at Black Rabbit. Roxie’s culinary prowess is matched by her strong will and determination. Okafor’s portrayal brings a sense of authenticity and strength to the character, making Roxie a standout in the ensemble cast. Okafor’s experience in both theater and television adds depth to her performance.
Sope Dirisu as Wes
Sope Dirisu takes on the role of Wes, a musician and entrepreneur who becomes entangled in the bar’s operations. Wes’s character adds an artistic flair to the series, contrasting with the more business-oriented characters. Dirisu’s previous roles in Gangs of London and Slow Horses demonstrate his ability to portray complex characters with ease.
Abbey Lee as Anna
Abbey Lee portrays Anna, a bartender at Black Rabbit whose tragic fate becomes a pivotal moment in the series. Anna’s untimely death serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama, affecting the characters’ relationships and decisions. Lee’s performance is both haunting and poignant, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Additional Cast Members
The series also features a talented supporting cast:
- Dagmara Domińczyk as Val, Jake’s ex-wife.
- Michael Cash as Hunter, Jake and Val’s son.
- Chris Coy as Babbit, a bookie with ties to Vince’s past.
- Troy Kotsur as Joe Mancuso, a gangster with a vested interest in the bar.
- Forrest Weber as Junior, Joe’s son.
- Odessa Young as Gen, Vince’s estranged daughter.
- Gus Birney as Mel, a nightclub host with her own secrets.
- Robin de Jesús as Tony, a chef at Black Rabbit.
- Amir Malaklou as Naveen, an investor in the bar.
- John Ales as Zablonski, a VIP regular at Black Rabbit.
- Morgan Spector as Campbell, Zablonski’s PR manager.
- Hettienne Park as Detective Ellen Seung, investigating Anna’s death.
Behind the Scenes: Creators and Directors
Black Rabbit was created by Zach Baylin and Kate Susman, who also serve as showrunners. Their vision brings a fresh perspective to the crime drama genre, focusing on character-driven storytelling. Jason Bateman not only stars in the series but also directs the first two episodes and serves as an executive producer. His involvement behind the camera adds a layer of authenticity to the series.
Other directors include Laura Linney, who directs episodes 3 and 4, and Justin Kurzel, who helms the final two episodes. Linney’s direction brings a nuanced approach to the series, while Kurzel’s episodes deliver intense and gripping narratives.
Themes and Storytelling
Black Rabbit delves into themes of family loyalty, ambition, and the consequences of past actions. The series explores how the characters’ histories shape their present lives and the choices they make. The setting of New York City’s restaurant scene provides a rich backdrop for the drama, highlighting the contrast between the city’s glamorous exterior and its darker undercurrents.
The show’s pacing and character development keep viewers engaged, with each episode revealing new layers of the characters’ personalities and motivations. The ensemble cast’s performances add depth to the narrative, making Black Rabbit a compelling watch for fans of crime dramas.
Reception and Critical Response
Since its release, Black Rabbit has garnered attention for its strong performances and engaging storyline. The series has been praised for its character-driven approach and the chemistry between the lead actors. Critics have highlighted the show’s ability to blend suspense with emotional depth, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup.
Conclusion
Black Rabbit offers a gripping exploration of family dynamics, ambition, and the consequences of one’s past. With a talented cast led by Jason Bateman and Jude Law, the series delivers compelling performances and a storyline that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or character-driven narratives, Black Rabbit is a must-watch.
Also Read : Jenna Ortega – Age, Height, Family, Career, TV Shows, Awards, Net Worth
FAQs
What is Black Rabbit about?
Black Rabbit is a crime drama miniseries that follows two brothers who open an upscale bar in Manhattan, only to have their lives disrupted by their past criminal activities.
Who stars in Black Rabbit?
The series stars Jason Bateman as Vince Friedken and Jude Law as Jake Friedken, with a supporting cast including Cleopatra Coleman, Amaka Okafor, and Sope Dirisu.
How many episodes are in Black Rabbit?
Black Rabbit consists of eight episodes, each ranging from 44 to 68 minutes in length.
Where can I watch Black Rabbit?
Black Rabbit is available for streaming on Netflix.
Is there a second season of Black Rabbit?
As of now, Black Rabbit is a limited series with no announced plans for a second season.
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