Emily Bader’s rise in Hollywood shows no sign of slowing down. Following the massive success of People We Meet on Vacation, which debuted at 17.2 million views on its opening weekend and number one on Netflix’s Global Top 10, the actress has now landed one of the most iconic roles of her career. As confirmed by DEADLINE Bader has been cast as legendary soccer star Mia Hamm in Netflix’s upcoming sports drama The 99’ers.
The film tells the story of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s historic 1999 World Cup victory, a moment that didn’t just change the sport, but reshaped how women’s athletics were viewed around the world. The team’s dramatic penalty shootout win against China, played in front of more than 90,000 fans, became a defining cultural moment and cemented the players as trailblazers far beyond the pitch.
Casting Bader as Hamm feels like a smart and timely choice. Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, Hamm was already a global superstar by the late 1990s, known for her leadership, competitive fire, and ability to thrive under pressure. Bader, who has quickly built a reputation for emotional authenticity and quiet intensity, seems well suited to capturing both the public icon and the private person behind the legacy.
The 99’ers will be directed by Emmy winner Nicole Kassell, whose work on Watchmen and Netflix’s Sirens proved she can balance intimate character moments with large-scale storytelling. With Kassell at the helm, the film looks set to focus not just on the on-field triumph, but also on the personal sacrifices, teamwork, and resilience that defined the team’s journey.
The script has been penned by a strong creative lineup, including Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges, suggesting a character-driven approach rather than a conventional sports biopic. The project is being produced by Liza Chasin through 3Dot Productions, continuing Netflix’s investment in prestige, awards-friendly films rooted in true stories.
For Bader, the role marks another major step forward. After breaking out in My Lady Jane and winning audiences over in People We Meet on Vacation, portraying Mia Hamm positions her firmly in leading-lady territory, while also allowing her to step into a role with real cultural weight.
With a powerful story, an accomplished director, and a rising star at its centre, The 99’ers is shaping up to be more than just a sports movie. It’s a celebration of a team that changed the game, and a defining new chapter for Emily Bader.
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