The Right Stuff

The 2020 American historical drama television series, developed by Mark Lafferty and based on Tom Wolfe's 1979 book of the same name, consists of eight episodes and chronicles the inception and evolution of the United States' space program, focusing on the first American astronauts known as the "Mercury Seven." The narrative delves into the intense competition among test pilots striving to become the first humans in space, as well as the impact of their ambitions on their personal lives and families. John Glenn (Patrick J. Adams) is portrayed as an ambitious and charismatic leader seeking public recognition, while Alan Shepard (Jake McDorman) is depicted as a talented but arrogant pilot focused on his own achievements. Gordon Cooper (Colin O'Donoghue) grapples with personal issues, attempting to maintain his marriage to Trudy Cooper (Eloise Mumford) despite past infidelities. The series explores themes of heroism, ambition, and personal sacrifice against the backdrop of the intense Cold War-era space race. It premiered on Disney+ on October 9, 2020, but was canceled after one season on April 3, 2021.