Tyler James Williams To Star In New Thriller, ‘Amber Alert’

Tyler James Williams is going to the dark side. The Abbott Elementary actor is set to star alongside Hayden Panettiere in the upcoming Lionsgate thriller, Amber Alert.

According to Deadline, the film is currently in post-production and is described as a “ high-stakes game of cat and mouse.”

The story centers around Jaq (Panettiere) and her driver, Shane (Williams). She is excited for her first day at a new job while he is eager to make some extra cash with this side hustle. When an Amber Alert comes through and they realize that they’re behind a car matching the description of the kidnapper’s, the two decide to pursue the vehicle—putting their own lives at risk in hopes of potentially saving a child in danger.

The film was directed by Kerry Bellessa and co-written by him and Joshua Oram. Panettiere and Williams will also serve as executive producers on the film, along with Hungry Bull Productions, who is behind films such as Passing, Pig, The Lady of the Manor, and Fear of Rain. A release date has not been announced.

This marks Williams’ first venture into the thriller world since he began his starring role on the hit comedy series, Abbott Elementary. He won a Golden Globe back in 2023 for his role as Gregory Eddie.

Upon winning his first Golden Globe, the 31-year-old began, “The magnitude of the moment is not lost on me.” He thanked his co-stars and was speechless when it came to thanking series creator, Quinta Brunson.

He continued, “I pray that this is a win for Gregory Eddie and for his story and for stories like his—that we may understand but his story just as important as all of the other stories that have to be told out here.”