Michael Chiklis Stars in Trailer for ‘The Senior’

Longtime actor Michael Chiklis is gearing up to play real-life linebacker Mike Flynt in the official trailer for The Senior, an upcoming sports drama that will be distributed by Angel Studios later this year. The two-minute footage showcases Flynt returning to his alma mater, Sul Ross State, after getting expelled from the institution in the early 1970s for fighting. At age 59, Flynt returned to Sul Ross State University and rejoined his former college team, later becoming the oldest college linebacker in NCAA history. “I told him I thought he was crazy,” said Jerry Larned, who coached Flynt during his time at Sul Ross in 1969 and supported him at the start of his comeback. But Flynt wouldn’t take no for an answer. With his undeniable grit and unwavering determination, Flynt proved that he was up for the challenge.

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According to Variety, Chiklis will star alongside Mary Stuart Masterson (The Stepford Wives), Brandon Flynn (13 Reasons Why), James Badge Dale (Iron Man 3) and Rob Corddry (Children’s Hospital, What Happens in Vegas). Rod Lurie, who is behind movies like The Outpost and Straw Dogs, directed the sports drama. In case you didn’t know, The Senior was released at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival in November 2023. So fans will now have a second chance to see it on the big screen! Angel Studios acquired The Senior in July of this year and the sports drama will make its big debut in theaters on September 19, 2025. But until then, you can watch the full trailer below.

Michael Chiklis Will Always Remember His ‘Fantastic Four’ Roots

Chris Evans as Human Torch in Fantastic Four — FOX

For Marvel fans, Michael Chiklis needs no introduction. As a refresher, Chiklis originally played “The Thing” in the 2005 live-adaptation of Fantastic Four, alongside Ioan Gruffudd (Mr. Fantastic), Jessica Alba (Invisible Woman) and Chris Evans (Human Torch). Before the new The Fantastic Four: First Steps —which stars Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Vanessa Kirby and Ebon Moss-Bachrach — hit theaters, Chiklis recently took to X to share his support for the next generation of actors playing the beloved superheroes. He wrote:

“I want to thank everyone for all the ‘Fantastic Four’ love this last couple of months during the run up to the new ‘F4’ flick. Speaking of which, I want to wish the cast and crew of ‘First Steps’ the best of luck and success. I admire these actors and look forward to seeing them take on these iconic roles. #F4Forever #TheThing.”

Per the synopsis, The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s “First Family.” While juggling their real-life responsibilities with their superhero duties, Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Johnny Storm (Human Torch) and Ben Grimm (The Thing) must work together to save Earth from Galactus and Silver Surfer. Can they thwart Galactus’ evil plan before it’s too late? Well, we’ll know soon enough because The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to premiere in theaters on July 25, 2025.

Source: Variety, MikeFlynt.com