Cole Hauser and Sylvester Stallone are set to collaborate on a new drama series titled Blood Aces, based in Las Vegas, where the story of a legendary casino operator unfolds. The show adapts Doug J. Swanson’s 2014 book and plans to explore the transformation of Vegas into a major gambling hub through the eyes of Benny Binion, portrayed by Hauser.
New Drama Series Based on Vegas Gambling Legend
The upcoming MGM series Blood Aces will dramatize the life of Benny Binion, a Texas gangster who relocated to Las Vegas and revolutionized the gambling scene. Hauser, known for his roles in Yellowstone and Tulsa King, takes the lead role as Binion, capturing the complex character behind Vegas poker’s rise. Binion’s journey from a casino operator in Texas to a pivotal figure in Las Vegas history highlights ambition, controversy, and vision.
Hauser expressed enthusiasm about the project, saying,
“Benny Binion is one of the great Western American characters and success stories of the 20th century, loaded with ambition, vision, balls, and like all controversial characters, many flaws,”
and added,
“His legacy is undeniable. How he built it is an incredible story which we can’t wait to tell. It’s a privilege to play him and an honor to produce this with Sylvester Stallone.”
MGM Expands Its Original Programming with Blood Aces
Blood Aces is part of MGM’s efforts to strengthen its premium streaming service, MGM+, now integrated with Amazon Prime Video since its acquisition in March 2022. The platform currently features original series such as Godfather of Harlem, the sci-fi horror show From, and the mystery thriller Vanished starring Kaley Cuoco. Adding Blood Aces aims to attract viewers interested in historical drama and crime stories set in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, Stallone remains busy with Tulsa King, preparing for its fourth season release expected late this year or early next. Hauser is also involved in several projects following the Yellowstone series finale. He will headline a sequel spin-off titled Dutton Ranch on Paramount+ later this year, focusing on the show’s expanding narrative. Additionally, Hauser is working on a football drama for Netflix with writer Nic Pizzolatto and co-star Matthew McConaughey, playing brothers in the series.
Stallone commented on the partnership saying,
“This is a story that will captivate audiences, and it’s a role made for Cole Hauser to play,”
and expressed excitement by adding,
“I am proud and excited to partner with Cole to bring this story to life.”
The Cultural Impact of Bringing Benny Binion’s Story to Screens
Benny Binion’s life embodies the rise of Las Vegas as a gambling mecca, framed by his complex personality—ambitious yet flawed. By adapting his story, Blood Aces promises to offer viewers a gripping look at the darker and more ambitious side of Vegas history. Featuring Hauser’s portrayal, the series is poised to draw fans of crime dramas and historical biographies alike.
As MGM+ continues to build its content library, the addition of Blood Aces highlights the streaming service’s commitment to delivering compelling narratives rooted in real events. Fans of Hauser and Stallone can anticipate a dramatic, character-driven story that brings a significant chapter of Western American history to life, potentially influencing future projects focused on similar true-life figures in the world of crime and entertainment.
