Rob Gronkowski Makes a Hollywood Comeback with Dual Film Roles
The beloved tight end of the New England Patriots, Rob Gronkowski, is set to make a splash in the film industry, marking an exciting chapter in his post-NFL career. Gronkowski will star in two movies filmed entirely in Rhode Island, reigniting his connection to the entertainment world.
A Star-Studded Return to the Silver Screen
Gronkowski will feature prominently in “The Roaring Game,” a sports-comedy slated for release in February 2026. The film, which completed production in October 2024, promises a nostalgic trip back to the comedic styles of the ’90s and early 2000s. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Mickey Rourke, William Forsythe, and Vanessa Angel, all under the direction of Rhode Island native Tom DeNucci.
The storyline follows Rickey, portrayed by Darin Brooks, a high school custodian facing personal upheaval when his girlfriend earns a spot on Team USA for the World Games. In a bid to win her back, he forms a quirky curling team, utilizing his janitorial skills to aim for gold. Chad A. Verdi, President of Verdi Productions, emphasized the film’s appeal, stating, “This film is a true throwback to the comedies of the ’90s and early 2000s, which there has been a vocal demand for among audiences.”
A Second Film: “Bad News on the Doorstep”
In addition to “The Roaring Game,” Gronkowski is also set to star in “Bad News on the Doorstep,” a coming-of-age story centered around two Italian-American high school football players in 1950s New Jersey who get entangled in organized crime. This film, which has also recently wrapped filming in Rhode Island, features Academy Award-nominated actor Chazz Palminteri, known for his iconic performances in “A Bronx Tale,” “The Usual Suspects,” and “Bullets Over Broadway.”
Directed by DeNucci and produced by the Verdi family, “Bad News on the Doorstep” showcases a fresh lineup of talent, including Palminteri’s son, Dante, and Nick Davi, son of actor Robert Davi, who will portray mafia kingpins. Sistine Stallone, the daughter of Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone, is also part of the cast. The film is expected to premiere in late 2026, although distribution details remain under wraps.
Gronkowski’s Hollywood Journey
These upcoming films are not Gronkowski’s first foray into acting. The charismatic former tight end has made appearances in various films, including “Boss Level,” “The Instigators,” “Good Burger 2,” and the 2023 hit “80 for Brady,” where he shared the screen with former Patriots teammates Tom Brady, Danny Amendola, and Julian Edelman, alongside screen icons like Jane Fonda and Sally Field.
Gronkowski’s storied football career with the Patriots remains unmatched. Over nine seasons, he accumulated an impressive collection of accolades, including four Super Bowl championships, five Pro Bowl selections, and a place on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. His impact on the game has solidified him as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, and now he looks to leave his mark on Hollywood as well.
As anticipation builds for Gronkowski’s cinematic endeavors, fans and film enthusiasts alike eagerly await his return to the spotlight.
