Jensen Ackles Will Lead MGM+ Crime Thriller Rules of Prey

MGM+ has ordered Rules of Prey, an eight-episode crime thriller starring Jensen Ackles as Lucas Davenport. Ackles will also executive produce the series, which adapts the first novel in John Sandford’s Prey books. MGM+‘s announcement, carried by Advanced Television, says production is scheduled to begin in Toronto in September 2026. The network has not given Rules of Prey a premiere date.

What is Rules of Prey about?

Davenport is a former Minneapolis police detective drawn back into an investigation when a killer targets city residents with murders meant to reach him. MGM+ describes a psychological contest between Davenport and an adversary who has his own idea of justice. Ackles is the only cast member named in the announcement; the actor playing the killer has not been revealed.

The series takes its title and starting point from Sandford’s first Prey novel, Rules of Prey. Sandford is the pen name of John Camp, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. MGM+ has not detailed how closely the adaptation will follow the book or whether later novels will supply material for further seasons.

Who is making the series?

Bruce Terris created the adaptation and will serve as showrunner and executive producer. Daniel Sackheim is set to direct the pilot and second episode and executive produce. MGM Television and Take 5 Productions are producing, while Sandford is a co-producer. UPI’s report independently confirms the eight-episode order, lead role and Toronto production plan.

When does Rules of Prey premiere, and where will it stream?

MGM+ has not announced an exact premiere date or a release year for Rules of Prey. The press release mentions 2027 for Ackles’ separate series Vought Rising; that year is not a confirmed window for Rules of Prey. A September 2026 production start does not establish when the new drama will air.

MGM+ plans to carry the series in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile. It is being announced as an MGM+ series; the announcement does not promise a standard Prime Video release or availability in other countries. For other upcoming shows, see our TV & Streaming coverage.