Kristen Stewart smiling on a red carpet event
TV & Film

Kristen Stewart's 'The Challenger' Casts Danny Huston, Shea Whigham

Danny Huston, Sofia Black-D’Elia, and Shea Whigham are joining Kristen Stewart and Will Arnett in the Prime Video NASA disaster series.

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 2 min read

Amazon's upcoming drama chronicling one of the most tragic chapters in space exploration history just locked down a stellar ensemble. Five key actors have officially signed on to star alongside Kristen Stewart and Will Arnett in the upcoming Prime Video series *The Challenger*. The newly announced series regulars include Hollywood veteran Danny Huston, *Single Drunk Female* star Sofia Black-D’Elia, *House of Cards* alum Paul Sparks, character actor Boris McGiver, and *Boardwalk Empire* favorite Shea Whigham. Together with Stewart and Arnett, the newly formed roster is set to bring the tense story behind NASA’s historic 1986 shuttle disaster to the screen.

What is Kristen Stewart's The Challenger about?

The project takes a deep, dramatic look at the events and internal dynamics that preceded the fatal 1986 space shuttle launch. Inspired by author Meredith E. Bagby’s acclaimed book *The New Guys*, the narrative focuses on the landmark NASA class of astronauts and the institutional pressures surrounding the high-profile mission. The limited series aims to offer an intimate, character-driven examination of the decision-makers, scientists, and crew members involved. Rather than focusing solely on the mechanical failure that led to the tragedy, the series explores the human side of the space program during a pivotal era in American history. Maggie Cohn, known for her sharp work on prestige television hits, serves as creator and showrunner for the series. Her adaptation aims to balance historical precision with high-stakes emotional storytelling.

Kristen Stewart smiling on a red carpet event
Kristen Stewart smiling on a red carpet event

Who is in the cast of The Challenger on Prime Video?

Oscar nominee Kristen Stewart anchors the cast, taking on a central role in the narrative, while comedy staple Will Arnett leans into serious drama for the streaming project. The five newly added performers bring extensive dramatic credentials to the Amazon original. Danny Huston brings decades of experience playing formidable, complex characters across film and television. Shea Whigham and Paul Sparks bring their signature intensity, well-known to fans of prestige crime and political dramas. Sofia Black-D’Elia adds a fresh leading presence to the mix, while veteran actor Boris McGiver rounds out the ensemble call sheet. With the full core cast now established, production on *The Challenger* is gearing up to become one of Prime Video’s most anticipated historical releases. Streaming premiere dates and specific episode counts are expected to be announced in the coming months.

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People also ask

What is Prime Video's The Challenger about?
The series explores the human stories, institutional pressures, and events that led to the tragic 1986 NASA space shuttle Challenger disaster.
Who stars in The Challenger on Prime Video?
Kristen Stewart and Will Arnett star alongside newly announced series regulars Danny Huston, Sofia Black-D’Elia, Paul Sparks, Boris McGiver, and Shea Whigham.