Apple TV+ announces cast for 'Beat the Reaper': J.K. Simmons joins, Sam Catlin as showrunner

Apple TV+ officially announced the cast for its new original series Beat the Reaper — a crime thriller developed by Apple Studios and New Regency. Oscar-winning actor J.K. Simmons will star in the series, while Will Poulter has also confirmed his involvement. Beat the Reaper is adapted from the novel of the same name by Josh Bazell. The story follows a hospital intern who must confront a dark past he tried to bury. Sam Catlin, the creator and co-showrunner, will serve as showrunner. Tim Van Patten, who has directed pilots for several acclaimed series, will direct the pilot episode and also serve as executive producer. On the production side, Arnon Milchan and the New Regency team serve as co-producers. Notably, J.K. Simmons is no stranger to audiences, having won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Whiplash. The actor was also nominated for an Oscar for his performance in Juno. The series has not yet announced an official release date. The Beat the Reaper project reflects Apple TV+'s expanding original content strategy into the crime thriller genre — a segment with a steady audience base on streaming platforms. With J.K. Simmons and Sam Catlin on board, the project is expected to make an impact from the earliest stages of development.