Shohei Ohtani Interpreter’s Betting Scandal Getting the Hollywood Treatment at Starz
The massive betting scandal surrounding Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter is getting the Hollywood treatment, with the premium network Starz close to a deal for a new limited series. The project comes from Lionsgate Television and will be penned by Alex Convery, the screenwriter behind the hit film Air.
A-List Creative Team Attached
The series has a high-profile creative team attached, signaling a serious approach to the story. Alex Convery, who wrote the acclaimed 2023 film Air about Nike’s pursuit of Michael Jordan, will write the script. He is joined by producers Scott Delman and Albert Chen.
Chen brings deep industry knowledge to the project. He is the author of the sports betting book Billion Dollar Fantasy and a former senior editor at Sports Illustrated where he covered baseball extensively. This expertise suggests the series will have a well-informed perspective on the gambling aspects of the scandal.
The Story of Betrayal and Theft
The series will focus on the story of Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s long-time interpreter and close friend. Mizuhara was fired at the start of the 2024 MLB season after it was revealed he had stolen nearly $17 million from the baseball superstar to cover his massive illegal gambling debts.
Mizuhara later pleaded guilty to federal bank and tax fraud charges and was sentenced to nearly five years in prison. Ohtani was declared a victim in the case and is considered completely innocent of any wrongdoing. The story of betrayal, addiction, and high-stakes crime has all the elements of a classic drama.
The project was first reported to be in development at Lionsgate Television in May 2024. The move to Starz is a natural fit, as the two companies were part of the same parent company until officially splitting in May 2025. While the deal is not yet finalized, it is reported to be close, which would give the series a home on a major premium cable network.
Recommended