Daniel Radcliffe says an unexpected introduction to fantasy football turned him into a devoted follower of the National Football League, a personal detail he shared while discussing his role in the upcoming comedy series The Fall & Rise of Reggie Dinkins.
Radcliffe stars opposite Tracy Morgan in the new NBC production created by Tina Fey. In the show, Radcliffe portrays a struggling director attempting to restore the reputation of a disgraced football player, played by Morgan, by filming a documentary about him.
While promoting the series, Radcliffe explained that his enthusiasm for American football began during a stage production more than a decade ago. “I did a musical here in 2011, and they started a fantasy football league,” he said. “They needed someone to make up the numbers, and so I got involved.”
He described how initial indifference quickly shifted once he realized he ranked last in the league. “I didn’t do anything with my account for four weeks, and then somebody was like, ‘You’re bottom of the league.’ I was like, ‘Okay, well, I’ve got to do something.’ ”
Radcliffe said the experience changed his level of engagement with the sport. He got into it from there, “and then (has) never looked back,” adding, “I’m a huge NFL fan.” He also noted that he now participates in multiple fantasy leagues, including one he manages with his girlfriend, saying, “We’re all in now.”
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The actor’s connection to the material extends beyond fandom. Known globally for portraying the title character in the Harry Potter film franchise, Radcliffe takes on a more overtly comedic role in the new series, which centers on reputation and professional redemption within the world of football.
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Daniel Radcliffe also highlighted his admiration for Tracy Morgan’s performance style and on-set presence. “I always say, the thing about Tracy — what he brings as an actor is it is unteachable and unlearnable,” Radcliffe said.
The Harry Potter star added, “He just has a natural comedy, charisma in his bones. There are line readings he has access to that 99% of actors just cannot say.”
He then added, “Every day, he’s going to say five of the craziest things you’ve ever heard, but also be incredibly kind and generous and funny.”
The series features an ensemble that includes Erika Alexander, Bobby Moynihan, Precious Way, and Jalyn Hall. Radcliffe described the production environment as enthusiastic and collaborative, saying the cast shares a strong appreciation for the work itself and for time spent on set.
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The project also reunites Morgan with longtime creative partners Fey and Robert Carlock, known for their previous collaboration on 30 Rock. Fey said Morgan’s outlook reflects both gratitude and resilience following the 2014 vehicle crash that critically injured him and killed his friend and mentor, Jimmy McNair.
She described Morgan as “literally happy to be alive,” adding that his enthusiasm for performing and collaborating shapes the tone of the production environment.
The Fall & Rise of Reggie Dinkins is positioned as a character-driven comedy centered on second chances in professional sports and entertainment, bringing together established collaborators and new cast members.
