American Hostage premieres on MGM+ starring Jon Hamm

The MGM+ psychological thriller series ‘American Hostage’ premiered on September 20, 2026. Starring Jon Hamm and Giovanni Ribisi, the eight-episode series is based on a true-crime podcast and real historical events from 1977.

The story is set in Indianapolis and follows Fred Heckman, a prominent local radio news personality played by Hamm. The plot centers on a 63-hour hostage crisis initiated by Tony Kiritsis, played by Ribisi, who took mortgage executive Dick Hall hostage following a dispute over a loan. Kiritsis used the radio broadcasts to demand a public apology and financial compensation, forcing Heckman into the role of an intermediary between the kidnapper and authorities.

Critics have noted the series features a strong ensemble cast, including Mireille Enos and Kristoffer Polaha, though reviews of the execution have been mixed regarding its pacing and resolution.