Gabriel Leone on Racing Scenes and Playing Ayrton Senna in Netflix’s Upcoming Series

Gabriel Leone

Bringing a legend to life is no small feat, but Gabriel Leone embraced the challenge in Netflix’s highly anticipated miniseries, Senna. Premiering globally on November 29, the six-episode drama chronicles the rise of Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna, blending action, emotion, and authenticity.

Gabriel Leone Exclusive Interview

Speaking about the intense process of filming racing sequences, Leone shared:

“We had four different setups. We had real footage, we had real shooting with stunt drivers, we had CGI, and then we had the close-ups from the LED studio. It was hard because I only had my eyes to act. With the visor between me and the camera, sometimes with rain, those close-ups are the heart of the scenes.”

Leone revealed that embodying Senna’s passion required more than mastering the technicalities of racing.

“He was never just racing. He was putting his heart on the track. That’s what we aimed to capture, and it was exhausting but so worth it. I think we could capture Senna’s essence when racing.”

Gabriel Leone
SENNA. (L to R) Matt Mella as Alain Prost, Gabriel Leone as Ayrton Senna in Senna. Cr. Alan Roskyn/Netflix © 2024

More About Netflix’s Senna

The series dives deep into Senna’s incredible career, highlighting pivotal moments that shaped his journey from karting prodigy to Formula 1 icon. From his early days in Formula Ford to his unmatched triumphs in Formula 1, the miniseries captures not only the adrenaline of motorsport but also the emotional beats of Senna’s life.

Fans can expect never-before-seen dramatizations of key milestones, culminating in the tragic events of the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix in Imola, Italy.

“Even before I got into a car, I already knew I was born to race,” says Leone as Senna in the trailer, perfectly setting the tone for this gripping narrative.

Netflix Gabriel Leone
SENNA. Gabriel Leone as Ayrton Senna in Senna. Cr. Guilherme Leporace/Netflix © 2024

Leone leads an impressive cast of Brazilian and international stars, including Alice Wegmann, Camila Márdila, and Kaya Scodelario. Rivals Alain Prost and Niki Lauda are brought to life by Matt Mella and Patrick Kennedy, adding depth to Senna’s story.

The production, helmed by showrunner Vicente Amorim and co-director Julia Rezende, ensures authenticity through a partnership with Senna Brands and the late driver’s family.

Buckle Up for Senna on Netflix

Whether you’re a motorsport aficionado or a fan of inspiring human stories, Senna promises an unforgettable ride. With its high-octane racing scenes and poignant storytelling, this series is poised to be a standout for both Formula 1 fans and newcomers alike.

Mark your calendars—Senna debuts November 29 exclusively on Netflix.

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