Premiering on Netflix on February 20, 2025, Zero Day is a high-stakes political thriller that plunges viewers into a world of conspiracy, power, and global chaos. The series follows George Mullen (Robert De Niro), a retired CIA operative thrust back into action when a catastrophic cyberattack cripples the United States. As the nation teeters on the brink of collapse, Mullen must unravel a labyrinthine conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of government. With a star-studded ensemble cast and a plot ripped from the headlines, Zero Day explores the fragile balance between security and freedom, trust and betrayal.
Created by Noah Hawley (Fargo, Legion), the series blends taut storytelling with cinematic visuals, delivering a gripping narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Let’s meet the powerhouse cast bringing this explosive story to life.
Zero Day Cast Guide
1. Robert De Niro as George Mullen
Robert De Niro, the legendary two-time Oscar winner (The Godfather Part II, Raging Bull), stars as George Mullen, a grizzled CIA veteran forced out of retirement to confront a global crisis. De Niro’s ability to convey gravitas and vulnerability makes Mullen a compelling protagonist, a man haunted by his past but driven by a sense of duty.
In Zero Day, De Niro’s performance anchors the series, blending quiet intensity with explosive moments of action. His chemistry with the ensemble cast, particularly Lizzy Caplan and Jesse Plemons, adds emotional depth to the high-octane narrative.
2. Jesse Plemons as Roger Carlson
Jesse Plemons, known for Breaking Bad (2013–2015) and Fargo (2015), plays Roger Carlson, a brilliant but morally ambiguous hacker recruited by Mullen to track down the cyberattack’s mastermind. Plemons’ knack for portraying complex, unpredictable characters makes Carlson a standout.
In Zero Day, Plemons’ performance captures Carlson’s genius and inner turmoil, as he navigates a world of espionage and betrayal. His dynamic with De Niro adds a layer of tension and dark humor to the series.
3. Lizzy Caplan as Alexandra Mullen
Lizzy Caplan, acclaimed for Masters of Sex (2013–2016) and Castle Rock (2018–2019), plays Alexandra Mullen, George’s estranged daughter and a rising star in the FBI. Caplan’s ability to balance strength and vulnerability makes Alexandra a relatable and compelling character.
In Zero Day, Caplan’s performance explores the strained father-daughter relationship, adding emotional stakes to the high-stakes plot. Her chemistry with De Niro and Plemons drives the series’ emotional core.
4. Connie Britton as Valerie Whitesell
Connie Britton, known for Friday Night Lights (2006–2011) and American Horror Story (2011–2021), plays Valerie Whitesell, a tenacious journalist determined to uncover the truth behind the cyberattack. Britton’s ability to portray strong, determined women makes Valerie a fan favorite.
In Zero Day, Britton’s performance adds a layer of investigative intrigue, as Valerie’s pursuit of the story puts her at odds with powerful forces. Her scenes with De Niro and Joan Allen crackle with tension.
5. Joan Allen as Sheila Mullen
Joan Allen, the three-time Oscar nominee (The Crucible, The Contender), plays Sheila Mullen, George’s ex-wife and a high-ranking State Department official. Allen’s ability to convey quiet strength and emotional complexity makes Sheila a standout character.
In Zero Day, Allen’s performance explores the lingering tensions between Sheila and George, adding depth to the series’ exploration of personal and political betrayal.
6. Matthew Modine as Richard Dreyer
Matthew Modine, known for Full Metal Jacket (1987) and Stranger Things (2017–2022), plays Richard Dreyer, a shadowy tech billionaire with ties to the cyberattack. Modine’s ability to portray charm and menace makes Dreyer a compelling antagonist.
In Zero Day, Modine’s performance adds a layer of corporate intrigue, as Dreyer’s motives remain shrouded in mystery. His scenes with De Niro and Plemons are electric.
7. Angela Bassett as President Evelyn Mitchell
Angela Bassett, the Oscar-nominated actress (What’s Love Got to Do with It, Black Panther), plays President Evelyn Mitchell, the resilient leader navigating the crisis. Bassett’s commanding presence and emotional depth make Mitchell a standout character.
In Zero Day, Bassett’s performance captures the weight of leadership, as Mitchell balances political pressure with personal resolve. Her scenes with De Niro and Allen add gravitas to the series.
8. Cuyle Carvin as Agent Tom McCarthy
Cuyle Carvin, known for The Walking Dead (2010–2022) and The Purge (2018–2019), plays Agent Tom McCarthy, a loyal CIA operative working alongside Mullen. Carvin’s ability to portray stoic determination makes McCarthy a grounding presence.
In Zero Day, Carvin’s performance highlights the sacrifices of those on the frontlines, as McCarthy’s loyalty is tested by the unfolding conspiracy.
9. Bill Camp as CIA Director Lasch
Bill Camp, acclaimed for The Night Of (2016) and Joker (2019), plays CIA Director Lasch, a seasoned spy with a hidden agenda. Camp’s ability to convey quiet menace and moral ambiguity makes Lasch a standout.
In Zero Day, Camp’s performance adds a layer of bureaucratic intrigue, as Lasch’s true motives remain shrouded in mystery.
10. Dan Stevens as Evan Green
Dan Stevens, known for Downton Abbey (2010–2012) and Legion (2017–2019), plays Evan Green, a charismatic but ruthless political operative. Stevens’ ability to portray charm and cunning makes Green a compelling antagonist.
In Zero Day, Stevens’ performance explores the dark side of political ambition, as Green’s machinations threaten to derail the investigation.
11. McKinley Belcher III as Carl Otieno
McKinley Belcher III, known for Ozark (2017–2022) and The Good Lord Bird (2020), plays Carl Otieno, a Kenyan intelligence officer aiding Mullen’s investigation. Belcher’s ability to convey quiet strength and moral clarity makes Otieno a standout.
In Zero Day, Belcher’s performance adds a global perspective to the series, as Otieno’s insights prove crucial to unraveling the conspiracy.
With its all-star cast, gripping narrative, and timely themes, Zero Day is set to be Netflix’s next must-watch thriller. Stream it on February 20, 2025—but be prepared to question everything.
