Premiering March 14, 2025, on Apple TV+, Dope Thief is a raw and gripping crime drama that delves into the underworld of heists, betrayal, and survival. Based on Dennis Tafoya’s acclaimed novel, the series follows Ray Driscoll (Brian Tyree Henry), a small-time thief who gets in over his head when a high-stakes robbery goes wrong. With its sharp writing, intense performances, and unflinching exploration of moral ambiguity, Dope Thief is a must-watch for fans of gritty, character-driven storytelling.
Set against the backdrop of Philadelphia’s criminal underworld, the series explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the cost of chasing the American dream. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast and a narrative packed with twists and tension, Dope Thief is a standout addition to Apple TV+’s lineup of prestige dramas.
The cast list of Dope Thief
1: Brian Tyree Henry as Ray Driscoll
Brian Tyree Henry, born March 31, 1982, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is known for Atlanta, If Beale Street Could Talk, and Bullet Train. As Ray Driscoll, Henry delivers a powerhouse performance, capturing the character’s desperation, wit, and moral complexity.
Henry’s portrayal of Ray anchors the series, as his journey from a low-level thief to a man caught in a web of danger and deceit drives the narrative. His ability to balance humor and pathos makes Ray a deeply relatable and compelling protagonist.
2: Wagner Moura as Manny Carvalho
Wagner Moura, born June 27, 1976, in Salvador, Brazil, is known for Narcos and Elysium. As Manny Carvalho, Ray’s unpredictable and volatile partner, Moura brings a magnetic intensity to the role.
Moura’s performance adds tension and unpredictability to the series, as Manny’s loyalty and motives are constantly in question. His dynamic with Henry’s Ray is a highlight of the show.
3: Marin Ireland as Mina
Marin Ireland, born August 30, 1979, in Camarillo, California, is known for Sneaky Pete and The Umbrella Academy. As Mina, a mysterious figure with ties to Ray’s past, Ireland brings depth and intrigue to the role.
Ireland’s portrayal of Mina adds emotional weight to the series, as her character’s connection to Ray reveals hidden layers of the story.
4: Amir Arison as Mark Nader
Amir Arison, born March 24, 1978, in St. Louis, Missouri, is known for The Blacklist and Billions. As Mark Nader, a ruthless crime boss, Arison brings a chilling presence to the role.
Arison’s performance adds menace to the series, as Nader’s pursuit of Ray and Manny raises the stakes and intensifies the drama.
5: Nesta Cooper as Michelle Taylor
Nesta Cooper, known for The Morning Show and The Good Fight, plays Michelle Taylor, a determined detective on Ray and Manny’s trail. Cooper’s portrayal of Michelle captures the character’s intelligence and tenacity.
Cooper’s performance adds tension to the series, as Michelle’s investigation creates new obstacles for the protagonists.
6: Kate Mulgrew as Theresa Bowers
Kate Mulgrew, born April 29, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, is known for Orange Is the New Black and Star Trek: Voyager. As Theresa Bowers, a seasoned criminal with her own agenda, Mulgrew brings gravitas and wit to the role.
Mulgrew’s performance adds depth to the series, as Theresa’s mentorship and manipulation of Ray reveal the complexities of the criminal world.
7: Ving Rhames as Bart
Ving Rhames, born May 12, 1959, in New York City, is known for Pulp Fiction and Mission: Impossible. As Bart, a veteran enforcer with a code of honor, Rhames brings a commanding presence to the role.
Rhames’s performance adds intensity to the series, as Bart’s loyalty and moral compass create unexpected alliances and conflicts.
8: Will Pullen as Marchetti
Will Pullen, known for The Outsider and Mare of Easttown, plays Marchetti, a young and ambitious criminal. Pullen’s portrayal of Marchetti captures the character’s recklessness and ambition.
Pullen’s performance adds energy to the series, as Marchetti’s actions create new challenges for Ray and Manny.
9: Dustin Nguyen as Son Pham
Dustin Nguyen, born September 17, 1962, in Saigon, Vietnam, is known for 21 Jump Street and The Warrior. As Son Pham, a shadowy figure with ties to the criminal underworld, Nguyen brings a quiet intensity to the role.
Nguyen’s performance adds intrigue to the series, as Son’s involvement in the story reveals hidden connections and dangers.
10: Liz Caribel Sierra as Sherry
Liz Caribel Sierra, known for The Blacklist and Law & Order: SVU, plays Sherry, a resourceful and street-smart ally to Ray. Sierra’s portrayal of Sherry captures the character’s resilience and loyalty.
Sierra’s performance adds heart to the series, as Sherry’s support for Ray highlights the importance of trust in a world of betrayal.
11: Idris Debrand as Teenage Ray
Idris Debrand, a rising young actor, plays Teenage Ray in flashbacks that explore his troubled past. Debrand’s portrayal of young Ray captures the character’s vulnerability and determination.
Debrand’s performance adds depth to the series, as the flashbacks reveal the events that shaped Ray’s life and choices.
12: Kieu Chinh as Xuan ‘Grandma’ Pham
Kieu Chinh, born October 16, 1939, in Hanoi, Vietnam, is known for The Joy Luck Club and Mulan. As Xuan “Grandma” Pham, a matriarch with ties to the criminal underworld, Chinh brings wisdom and gravitas to the role.
Chinh’s performance adds emotional resonance to the series, as Grandma Pham’s guidance and secrets play a pivotal role in the story.
