# Anthony Mackie and Cast Discuss Audible's New Sci-Fi Drama Exoplanet Stars reveal the challenges of recording Andy Weir's immersive temporal audio thriller. - **Source:** [Space.com](https://www.space.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-10 - **Topic:** [entertainment](https://brifing.si/c/entertainment) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a98ebfcf-81c9-4aab-86dc-18830ec5bd06 ## New Sci-Fi Audio Odyssey Audible released Exoplanet, a seven-episode science fiction audio drama executive produced by Andy Weir and written by Benjamin Percy. The narrative follows the crew of the starship Wild Blue Yonder, who crash-land on a deadly planet. Each crew member arrives in a different era, creating a complex, multi-timeline survival mystery. ## Star-Studded Voice Cast The production features high-profile talent including Anthony Mackie as Chief Engineer Jeff Shaw, Ariana DeBose as First Officer Becca Bang, and John Leguizamo as Science Officer Logan Bowers. Their involvement elevates the project, blending Weir’s established reputation for hard science fiction with cinematic vocal performances to reach a broad audience. ## Mackie's Lifelong Genre Passion Anthony Mackie’s interest in science fiction began in childhood through exposure to authors like Octavia Butler and Walter Mosley. He views the genre as a vital career construct, noting that the concept of space travel remains a fascinating, albeit daunting, human ambition that he enjoys exploring through his character's technical perspective. ## Leguizamo and Radio History John Leguizamo drew inspiration from his youth spent at the Broadcast Museum in New York City, where he studied classic radio plays like The Shadow. He was attracted to Exoplanet because it addresses modern anxieties regarding technology and artificial intelligence, challenging him to build an entire world using only his voice. ## DeBose on Creative Challenges Ariana DeBose was drawn to the project because it pushed her outside her comfort zone, a factor she considers essential for artistic growth. She emphasizes the importance of the audio format in fostering listener imagination, hoping the story encourages audiences to consider how they might solve complex problems in their own lives. ## Physicality of Voice Acting Recording the drama proved to be a demanding full-body workout for the cast. DeBose describes running in place and using props to mimic character movements, while Leguizamo admits to physically acting out scenes, including punching himself to simulate impact. Both actors emphasize that authentic vocal delivery requires intense, exhausting physical commitment. ## The Art of Listening The cast views Exoplanet as a revival of the lost art of full-cast audio dramas. By eliminating visual cues, the production forces both the actors and the audience to engage more deeply with the narrative. The actors note that modern audiences often lack the patience for sustained listening, making this format unique. ## Production Impact and Availability Released on November 5, 2026, the series is currently available exclusively on Audible. The project highlights a shift toward high-production-value audio storytelling, bridging the gap between traditional radio plays and modern cinematic thrillers. It serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Andy Weir’s world-building in the digital age. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.space.com/entertainment/anthony-mackie-ariana-debose-and-john-leguizamo-reveal-why-they-joined-andy-weirs-sci-fi-audio-drama-exoplanet-interview — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._