The 5 Biggest Projects Brandon Flynn Is Working On Right Now (Including A Controversial James Dean Biopic)

Brandon Flynn, the actor who captured the world’s attention as Justin Foley in the hit Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, is currently undergoing a massive career transformation with a slate of major projects. As of late 2025 and moving into 2026, the 31-year-old actor is shedding his teen drama roots to take on complex, adult roles in both film and theater, including a highly-anticipated and potentially controversial turn as an American screen legend. This is a pivotal moment for Flynn, marking his definitive move from streaming star to a serious dramatic and stage actor, with his new work setting the stage for a dramatic shift in his public and professional identity.

The latest news surrounding Flynn is a testament to his versatility, with roles ranging from a comedy-horror film to a major off-Broadway play. His upcoming projects are fresh, unique, and demonstrate a clear intention to challenge himself with diverse characters, proving he is a talent to watch in the coming years. His casting in a specific biopic is the most talked-about news, promising to bring renewed attention to a hidden chapter of Hollywood history.

Brandon Flynn: Complete Biography and Profile

Brandon Paul Flynn is an American actor best known for his breakout role as Justin Foley on the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. His career has steadily built on a foundation of stage work and impactful television appearances, leading to his current wave of high-profile projects.

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• Full Name: Brandon Paul Flynn
• Date of Birth: October 11, 1993
• Age (as of late 2025): 32
• Place of Birth: Miami, Florida, U.S.
• Education: Attended New World School of the Arts in Miami and graduated from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in New Jersey.
• Early Career: Began acting at age ten, playing Mr. Smee in a musical production of Peter Pan. His early work included various stage performances and commercials.
• Breakthrough Role: Justin Foley in 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020), a role that explored complex themes of drug addiction, abuse, and redemption.
• Notable TV Roles: Henry Osgood in the Ryan Murphy series Ratched (2020) and a role in the third season of True Detective (2019).
• Activism: An outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness, often using his platform to discuss issues faced by the community.

The Five Major New Projects Redefining Brandon Flynn’s Career

Flynn’s current slate of work is a deliberate move away from the high school setting of Liberty High and into mature, challenging roles. These projects are the freshest and most talked-about parts of his career right now, spanning film and theater.

1. Playing James Dean in the Biopic Willie and Jimmy Dean

The most significant and buzzworthy news is Brandon Flynn’s casting as the iconic actor James Dean in the forthcoming biopic, Willie and Jimmy Dean. This film is set to explore a specific, lesser-known chapter of Dean’s life, focusing on his purported gay college romance with his best friend and early roommate, screenwriter William Bast.

• The Story: The movie is based on William Bast’s 2006 memoir, *Surviving James Dean*.
• The Context: The film, directed by Guy Guido, aims to provide a truthful and beautiful attempt at exploring this complex relationship during Hollywood's Golden Age, a time when LGBTQ+ relationships were often kept secret.
• Why It's a Game-Changer: Taking on the persona of a cultural icon like James Dean is a massive undertaking for any actor, putting Flynn firmly in the spotlight for serious dramatic consideration and introducing him to a new echelon of film critics and audiences.

2. Returning to the Stage in the Off-Broadway Play Data

Proving his commitment to the craft beyond the screen, Flynn is set to star in the New York stage premiere of the play Data. His return to the theater is a nod to his roots and a chance to engage with a live audience in a challenging new work.

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• The Role: Flynn will star as the character Jonah.
• The Venue and Date: The production is scheduled to begin performances off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre starting January 9, 2026.
• The Cast: He will be joined by a strong ensemble cast, including Karan Brar, Sophia Lillis, and Justin H. Min.

3. Starring in the Comedy-Horror Film The Parenting

In a refreshing change of pace, Flynn is also starring in the comedy-horror film The Parenting. This project showcases his ability to move between intense drama and lighter, genre-bending material.

• The Genre: Described as a hilariously terrifying comedy, the film marks a new direction for the actor.
• Co-Stars: Flynn has been doing recent interviews alongside his co-star, Nik Dodani, with whom he discussed the wild nature of the film. Dean Norris and Vivian Bang are also part of the cast.

4. Recent Fashion and Modeling Collaborations

Beyond acting, Brandon Flynn has cemented his status as a fashion figure, appearing on several magazine covers and attending high-profile industry events in 2025.

• High-Profile Appearances: He was a notable attendee at the Loewe fashion show in Paris in October 2025.
• Editorial Features: Flynn was featured on the covers of magazines such as Les Hommes Publics #13 Summer 2025 and Man About Town #36 Spring/Summer 2025. This visibility in the fashion world keeps his profile high and current between acting projects.

5. The Legacy of Henry Osgood in Ratched

While not a new project, his role as Henry Osgood in the Ryan Murphy-produced Netflix series Ratched remains a critical part of his post-13 Reasons Why career. The series, a prequel to the classic One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, allowed Flynn to work alongside established stars like Sarah Paulson and explore a darker, more sadistic character.

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• The Character: Henry Osgood is the privileged, spoiled son of Lenore, known for his odd, sadistic urges.
• The Impact: This role helped establish Flynn in the "Murphyverse" and demonstrated his range outside of the emotional vulnerability of Justin Foley.

Brandon Flynn’s Career Trajectory: From Justin Foley to James Dean

Brandon Flynn’s journey from the troubled, fan-favorite character Justin Foley on 13 Reasons Why to his current roles highlights a conscious effort to challenge audience expectations. The character of Justin Foley was an integral part of the series, grappling with issues of addiction and a difficult home life, ultimately culminating in a tragic, yet impactful, ending for the show.

Now, by stepping into the shoes of James Dean, Flynn is taking on a role that is both an honor and a significant career risk. The film *Willie and Jimmy Dean* is poised to spark conversations about Hollywood's past and LGBTQ+ history, ensuring Brandon Flynn remains a central figure in the entertainment news cycle for the foreseeable future. His commitment to diverse projects—from the intense drama of a biopic to the light of an off-Broadway stage—signals a long and varied career ahead.