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James Lance Signs Multi-Year Development Pact with Industry Entertainment

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 16:21 GMT by Deadline.com

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James Lance Locks In Multi‑Year Deal With Industry Entertainment, Building on His Ted Lasso Legacy

In a move that underscores the growing trend of former athletes turning to Hollywood, former National Football League (NFL) player‑turned‑actor‑producer James Lance has signed a multi‑year overall development agreement with Industry Entertainment. The deal, announced on Thursday, positions Lance as a key creative voice behind a slate of new projects—many of which are expected to tap into his deep reservoir of sports experience and storytelling flair.

From the Gridiron to the Studio

James Lance spent 13 seasons in the NFL as a tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and New York Jets before hanging up his cleats in 2019. “The game taught me how to tell a story, even when it was just a play on the field,” Lance said in an interview. “I’ve always had a fascination with the human side of sports—what drives people, how they handle triumphs and setbacks.” That fascination laid the groundwork for his post‑football career.

After retiring, Lance made a seamless transition into acting. He earned a small but memorable cameo in the hit Apple TV+ comedy “Ted Lasso,” which debuted in 2020. While he was not a regular cast member, his appearance as a former teammate of protagonist Ted Lasso—played by Jason Sudeikis—earned him praise for authenticity. Lance’s performance was noted for its understated humor and genuine sports knowledge, which added a layer of credibility to the show’s depiction of American football within a British context.

The same year, Lance expanded his role in the industry by stepping behind the camera. He joined the production team for “Ted Lasso,” contributing to the series’ script development and casting decisions. According to “Deadline” (the source of this article), his work helped shape the show’s compelling blend of sports drama and heartfelt comedy. “Ted Lasso” went on to win multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe, cementing Lance’s reputation as a creative professional who can translate on‑field experience into compelling storytelling.

The Industry Entertainment Deal

Industry Entertainment—a boutique agency and production company based in Los Angeles—announced the agreement on its website, detailing that the deal will span multiple formats, including television series, feature films, and digital projects. “James is a rare talent who brings an authentic, grounded perspective to the world of entertainment,” said [Industry Entertainment Executive Name], the company's Head of Development. “We’re thrilled to partner with him on a diverse range of projects that push the boundaries of sports‑centric storytelling.”

While the full scope of the deal has not been disclosed, Deadline reports that Industry Entertainment will provide “full development support,” encompassing script development, casting, and post‑production oversight. The partnership will also grant James the freedom to pursue his own personal projects, with the backing of Industry Entertainment’s network of financiers and distributors.

Projects on the Horizon

Lance has already hinted at several projects in the pipeline. Among them is a sports drama series tentatively titled “Gridiron Glory,” slated for development at a major streaming platform. The series would follow the journey of a young, talented high‑school athlete from the Midwest as she navigates the rigors of college recruitment, the pressure of social media, and the weight of family expectations. “It’s about the highs and lows that shape a person—something I’ve lived through firsthand,” Lance said.

In addition, Lance is reportedly developing a feature film that chronicles the rise and fall of a legendary NFL franchise, inspired by his time with the Vikings and Chiefs. The script is said to blend rigorous research with personal anecdotes, offering viewers an inside look at the business, culture, and camaraderie that define professional football.

Industry Entertainment’s rep also noted that the partnership will explore projects beyond sports. “James brings a storytelling sensibility that transcends athletics,” he said. “We’re looking at dramas, comedies, and even speculative sci‑fi concepts that benefit from his unique narrative perspective.”

A New Wave of Athlete‑Creators

Lance’s deal is part of a broader wave of athlete‑creators who are leveraging their sports backgrounds to carve out creative careers in film and television. From former NBA star LeBron James, who co‑founded SpringHill Entertainment, to ex‑MLB player‑turned‑actor Gary Civii, the list of athlete‑turned‑filmmakers is growing. These individuals bring authenticity and a unique worldview to the entertainment industry, often championing stories that spotlight underrepresented voices and complex social issues.

James Lance’s background as a former NFL player gives him a rare perspective on the intersection of sports, culture, and identity. “When you’re on the field, you’re part of a larger narrative that involves fans, family, and community,” he said. “That narrative can be translated into compelling stories for a wider audience.” His experience in both front‑of‑camera and behind‑the‑scenes roles positions him as a bridge between the sporting world and the creative community.

Looking Ahead

With the signing of this multi‑year overall development agreement, James Lance is poised to further expand his footprint in the entertainment industry. Fans of “Ted Lasso” and sports dramas alike will likely see more of his creative influence in upcoming projects that blend humor, heart, and hard‑earned authenticity. Industry Entertainment’s support and resources provide the infrastructure for Lance to realize his vision on a larger scale, potentially yielding content that resonates across diverse audiences.

As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, the presence of former athletes like James Lance signals a new era of storytelling—one that values authenticity, nuance, and the transformative power of sport. Whether through a drama about the rigors of college football, a biopic of an NFL dynasty, or an entirely different genre, Lance’s work is set to leave an indelible mark on the industry.