Netflix is doubling down on its high-energy comedy lineup with an unlikely pairing that’s already sparking fan excitement. Andy Samberg and Jason Momoa, two stars from entirely different cinematic worlds, are set to headline “Protecting Jared,” a new action comedy that combines laugh-out-loud humour with explosive action.
Originally announced in mid-2025 as a “hot package,” the project quickly became one of the most talked-about scripts in Hollywood. With a powerhouse creative team, a well-known director, and filming soon to start in Hawaii, Netflix’s latest original film might just become its next global comedy hit.
Film analyst Erica Stone notes,
“Pairing Samberg and Momoa is pure genius—one’s a comedic mastermind, the other’s a modern-day action icon. That contrast alone is enough to make audiences curious.”
Introduction to “Protecting Jared”
“Protecting Jared” is an action comedy film set to enter production in early 2026 under Netflix. The film pairs Andy Samberg, best known for Brooklyn Nine-Nine, with Jason Momoa, the face of Aquaman and Game of Thrones.
The movie is penned by Rob Klein and John Solomon, two writers known for crafting character-driven comedy. Klein has contributed to The Middle and American Dad, while Solomon has been a key creative force behind Saturday Night Live and MacGruber.
At the helm is director Ruben Fleischer, whose filmography spans genres from Zombieland and Venom to 30 Minutes or Less. His knack for blending action and humour makes him an ideal fit for this project.
Overview Table: “Protecting Jared”
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Protecting Jared |
| Genre | Action Comedy |
| Director | Ruben Fleischer |
| Writers | Rob Klein, John Solomon |
| Lead Cast | Andy Samberg, Jason Momoa |
| Producers | Ali Bell, Brian Andrew Mendoza, Thomas Sibbett |
| Line Producer | Rob Cowan |
| Production Start Date | February 17, 2026 |
| Production End Date | April 21, 2026 |
| Filming Location | Oahu, Hawaii |
| Expected Release | 2027 on Netflix |
Key Features and Storyline
While Netflix and the filmmakers have kept plot specifics tightly under wraps, early reports from Production Weekly suggest that “Protecting Jared” will follow a blend of buddy-cop and mistaken identity tropes, seasoned with the signature humour of Andy Samberg and the commanding presence of Jason Momoa.
The story centres on Jared Bachman (played by Samberg), a mild-mannered man who unexpectedly finds himself targeted by a mysterious group. His only line of defence? William Ikaika (played by Momoa), a rugged protector with a past that’s as explosive as his temper.
Film critic James Holbrook commented,
“If Fleischer maintains his balance of sharp humor and kinetic energy as seen in Zombieland, this could be Netflix’s next major action-comedy crossover hit.”
The chemistry between the two leads is expected to drive the film, contrasting Samberg’s fast-talking wit with Momoa’s grounded, physical performance.
Casting and Creative Team Insights
While no additional cast members have been announced, insiders expect supporting roles to be filled by a mix of comedic and dramatic actors. The casting process is reportedly focusing on performers who can match Samberg’s timing and Momoa’s charisma.
Here’s a quick look at the confirmed team and what they bring to the table:
| Name | Role | Notable Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Andy Samberg | Jared Bachman | Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Palm Springs |
| Jason Momoa | William Ikaika | Aquaman, Game of Thrones |
| Ruben Fleischer | Director | Zombieland, Venom |
| Rob Klein | Writer | The Middle, American Dad |
| John Solomon | Writer | SNL, MacGruber |
| Ali Bell, Brian Andrew Mendoza, Thomas Sibbett | Producers | Various Hollywood productions |
Film industry expert Laura Trent adds,
“Netflix’s decision to tap Ruben Fleischer shows confidence. He’s one of the few directors who can create high-stakes action that still feels comedic and relatable.”
Key Features of the Film for Netflix’s Lineup
Netflix’s 2026–2027 release slate already looks packed, but “Protecting Jared” stands out for several reasons:
- Star Power – Combining Andy Samberg’s comedic appeal with Jason Momoa’s global fanbase brings two major audiences under one roof.
- Genre Appeal – Action comedies tend to perform exceptionally well in streaming, providing both escapism and entertainment.
- Global Accessibility – With Hawaii as its primary filming location, the movie promises visually stunning backdrops and broad cultural resonance.
- Director’s Credibility – Fleischer’s prior box office successes suggest this could be a high-performing original for Netflix.
Entertainment strategist Michael Roach noted,
“Netflix’s investment in theatrical-calibre original films like Protecting Jared signals a strategy to dominate global streaming charts beyond just drama and thrillers.”
Production Timeline and Budget Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | Late 2025 |
| Filming Start Date | February 17, 2026 |
| Filming Wrap Date | April 21, 2026 |
| Primary Location | Oahu, Hawaii |
| Post-Production Period | May 2026 – Late 2026 |
| Estimated Release Window | Early 2027 |
| Budget Estimate | $70–90 million (expected mid-range Netflix original film budget) |
How “Protecting Jared” Compares to Similar Netflix Comedies?
| Film Title | Stars | Genre | Tone / Style | Audience Reception |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Notice | Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot | Action Comedy | Stylish & fast-paced | Massive global viewership |
| The Out-Laws | Adam Devine, Pierce Brosnan | Comedy | Family & heist elements | Moderate success |
| Murder Mystery | Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston | Comedy-Mystery | Whimsical, light-hearted | High audience engagement |
| Protecting Jared | Andy Samberg, Jason Momoa | Action Comedy | Buddy-action humor with heart | Anticipated high global appeal |
The pairing of Samberg and Momoa resembles the dynamic duos of Lethal Weapon and 21 Jump Street, unlikely partners who discover chemistry amid chaos.
Recent Updates
- July 2025: Netflix secured rights to the film after multiple studios showed interest.
- November 2025: Ruben Fleischer officially attached as director.
- December 2025: Production scheduled for February–April 2026 in Oahu, Hawaii.
- Expected Release: Early 2027, pending post-production completion.
Fans can expect a teaser or early promotional images by late 2026 if production remains on schedule.
Why It Matters?
The collaboration between Samberg and Momoa underlines Netflix’s evolving strategy: merging major star power with genre experimentation. The film’s tone, a blend of absurd humour and emotional action, fits Netflix’s growing appetite for original tentpole releases that rival theatrical comedies.
Moreover, “Protecting Jared” represents a moment of creative fusion in Hollywood. It blurs the line between traditional studio projects and streamer originals, giving top-tier talent a flexible platform to deliver cinematic experiences directly to audiences worldwide.
For fans of both leads, this is more than a comedy, it’s a showcase of unexpected chemistry and creative storytelling that may redefine Netflix’s comedic future.
FAQs
It’s an upcoming Netflix action comedy about Jared Bachman, an ordinary man who becomes a target and must rely on a mysterious protector, William Ikaika, to survive.
Andy Samberg and Jason Momoa lead the cast as Jared Bachman and William Ikaika.
Ruben Fleischer, known for Zombieland and Venom, will direct.
Filming begins on February 17, 2026, in Oahu, Hawaii.
The film is expected to premiere in early 2027.
It’s the first major collaboration between Samberg and Momoa—two stars from different genres, promising a mix of sharp comedy and thrilling action.
