A beloved hockey film from the 1980s is set to make a comeback as Well Go USA Entertainment has acquired the U.S. rights to “Youngblood,” originally released in 1986. The highly anticipated reboot is scheduled to hit theaters on March 6, 2026, and will be helmed by Academy Award nominee Hubert Davis, known for his work on “The Well.” The film is being produced by Aircraft Pictures, in partnership with Dolphin Entertainment and Photon Films and Media.
“Youngblood” follows the journey of Dean Youngblood, a talented hockey player who aspires to join a Canadian junior hockey team while navigating the challenges posed by more aggressive teammates. This new adaptation retains the essence of the original, depicting Dean’s travel from Detroit to Canada as he joins the Hamilton Mustangs in pursuit of his professional hockey dreams. Raised by a father who instilled toughness and discipline in him, Dean arrives with not only immense talent but also an arrogance that leads to conflict. As he battles both external and personal toxic behaviors, he must confront the defining question of what type of man and player he wants to become.
Doris Pfardrescher, President and CEO of Well Go USA, expressed enthusiasm about introducing “Youngblood” to a modern audience. She emphasized that Dean Youngblood’s story goes beyond just a sports narrative, serving instead as a powerful exploration of courage, identity, and the societal pressures that influence us. The film promises to deliver a mix of thrilling on-ice action and deep character development, ultimately taking viewers on an emotive journey that resonates long after the credits roll.
The updated cast features Ashton James in the lead role of Dean Youngblood, alongside notable actors such as Blair Underwood, Shawn Doyle, and Alexandra McDonald, among others. The screenplay has been crafted by a team of writers, including Josh Epstein and the late Charles Officer, while executive producers include Bill O’Dowd and Emerson Davis.
Notably, the new “Youngblood” will incorporate footage produced in collaboration with the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and enlisted hockey technical advisor Christopher V. Nelson to design the film’s on-ice sequences. This thoughtful integration promises to enhance authenticity, attracting both fans of the original and newcomers alike.
With its blend of sport and personal growth, the reboot of “Youngblood” represents a hopeful new chapter for the story, poised to inspire a fresh generation of viewers while honoring the legacy of the original film.