Noah Centineo takes on one of Hollywood’s most iconic action roles

Noah Centineo is officially taking on one of Hollywood’s most recognisable action characters, as filming gets under way on John Rambo, a new prequel exploring the origins of the legendary soldier.

The Lionsgate-backed film has begun production in Bangkok, Thailand, with director Jalmari Helander leading the project. Set years before the events of First Blood, the movie tells the early story of John Rambo, the character first portrayed by Sylvester Stallone in 1982.

Centineo, who also stars in this year’s Street Fighter, plays the lead role in the origin story, marking a major shift into action territory for the actor.

Cast confirmed as cameras roll

Lionsgate announced that the supporting cast includes Yao, Jason Tobin, Quincy Isaiah, Jefferson White and Tayme Thapthimthong.

Helander, best known for Sisu, directs from a script written by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani. The film is produced by Millennium Media, Templeton Media and AGBO, with Kevin King Templeton, Les Weldon, Jonathan Yunger, Michael Disco and Angela Russo-Otstot serving as producers.

Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Trevor Short, Dallas Sonnier and Amanda Presmyk are executive producers.

Returning to Rambo’s beginnings

Stallone originated the role of John Rambo in First Blood, portraying a Vietnam War veteran pushed into conflict with law enforcement in a small American town. The film earned $125 million worldwide and spawned multiple sequels, most recently Rambo: Last Blood in 2019.

Helander has described the prequel as a more grounded take on the character, focusing on survival, endurance and lost innocence rather than spectacle.

“When I was 11, I saw First Blood for the first time, and it changed my life,” the director said. “As we begin production on the origin of John Rambo, we’re going back to the beginning.”

Lionsgate backs Centineo-led reboot

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group president Erin Westerman said the prequel will allow both new audiences and longtime fans to explore Rambo’s roots, while delivering action shaped by Helander’s distinctive vision.

The studio also highlighted Centineo’s performance, saying the actor brings a committed and powerful presence to the role.

A release date for John Rambo has not yet been announced.