A legendary pirate story is back, this time on Netflix. The new series Sandokan brings to life the classic tales by Italian author Emilio Salgari, first published in the late 1800s. This production, which originally aired on Italian television in December 2025, landed globally on Netflix on January 19, 2026. The show tells the thrilling story of a pirate’s fight against British colonial forces in the 19th-century Malay Archipelago. Its success relies on a talented international cast, led by Turkish superstar Can Yaman in the title role, who bring depth, conflict, and adventure to the screen.
The Main Cast and Characters
The heart of Sandokan is its central trio, whose complex relationships drive the story’s drama and action.
Can Yaman as Sandokan, The Tiger of Malaysia
Turkish actor Can Yaman takes on the iconic role of Sandokan. Known to fans globally as the charismatic lead in Turkish dramas like Erkenci Kuล and Bay Yanlฤฑล, this marks Yaman’s first major English-speaking role. His character, often called “The Tiger of Malaysia,” is a pirate prince fighting to free the native Dayak people from brutal British colonial rule in Borneo. The role required a physical transformation for the demanding action sequences, and Yaman portrays Sandokan as a man discovering his true destiny while navigating a dangerous romance and a quest for justice.
Alanah Bloor as Lady Marianna Guillonk, The Pearl of Labuan
Playing the female lead is Alanah Bloor, who portrays Lady Marianna Guillonk, known as “The Pearl of Labuan”. She is the daughter of the British consul, living within the strict confines of Victorian society. Her encounter with Sandokan awakens a sense of adventure and forces her to question everything she knows about loyalty, love, and the empire she represents. This is Bloor’s first major leading role following her appearance in the 2025 mini-series Man vs Baby.
Ed Westwick as Lord James Brooke, The Pirate Hunter
The main antagonist is brought to life by Ed Westwick. He plays Lord James Brooke, a charming but ruthless British pirate hunter determined to capture Sandokan. Brooke is also the intended match for Lady Marianna, setting up a tense love triangle. Westwick is best known for his role as Chuck Bass in the hit series Gossip Girl, and here he transitions from NYC high society to the shadowy world of colonial ambition and naval warfare.
Key Supporting Characters and Cast
Beyond the central trio, a strong ensemble of veteran and rising actors fills the world of Sandokan with memorable figures.
Alessandro Preziosi plays Yanez de Gomera, Sandokan’s loyal and wise Portuguese friend and second-in-command. The role of Sergeant Murray, a seasoned soldier serving the British forces, is played by Scottish actor John Hannah, known for films like The Mummy and Four Weddings and a Funeral.
Other notable supporting cast include:
- Owen Teale as Lord Guillonk, Marianna’s father and the British consul.
- Madeleine Price as Sani, Lady Marianna’s Dayak companion who has her own painful history with the colonizers.
- Matt McCooey as Sultan Muda Hashim, a ruler navigating political pressures.
- Gilberto Gaiozzi as Sambigliong, a member of Sandokan’s pirate crew.
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Where to Watch Sandokan
The eight-episode first season of Sandokan is now available to stream globally on Netflix. The series is an English-language production, making it accessible to a wide audience. Since its release on Netflix, the show has appeared in the Top Ten lists across multiple countries.
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