Case in point: HALO, the first-person shooter game that debuted more than 20 years ago—back in 2001—on Microsoft’s Xbox game console. Since its debut, HALO has spawned multiple sequels and sold more than 65 million copies worldwide to a tune of over $6 billion dollars in total revenue. The HALO franchise has also expanded into merchandise offshoots including novels, comic books, toys, clothing and animated and feature films. Most recently, the franchise has been developed into an episodic series on Paramount+, Paramount’s streaming service. Here’s what we know about season 1 of HALO.
What is HALO?
In its adaptation for Paramount+, HALO will take place in the universe that first debuted in 2001 with the launch of the first Halo video game made for XBox. Dramatizing an epic 26th-century conflict between humanity and an alien threat known as the Covenant, HALO the series will weave deeply drawn personal stories with action, adventure, and a richly imagined vision of the future. The United Nations Space Command (UNSC) is the military and scientific exploratory arm of the Unified Earth Government. Their Marine Corps consists of Spartans—not the SNL cheerleader kind, but a genetically enhance group of super-soldiers created by Dr. Halsey. In fighting off the Covenant in one of their battles, Master Chief (Pablo Schreiber) finds an artifact that activates when he touches it.
Is HALO based on other material?
The HALO tv series is based on the popular video game (and its sequels) of the same name.
Are Spartans human?
Yes and no. They are human, but they have been genetically modified to be better in every way—strength, combat skills, intelligence and more.
Who’s in the cast of HALO?
Pablo Schreiber (Master Chief Spartan0-117/John)
Master Chief is the main protagonist in the HALO franchise. He begins to have memories of his childhood after he touches an artifact. Pablo Schreiber is probably best known for his villainous roles. He had a recurring role on Law & Order: SVU where he played William Lewis, a serial rapist and nemesis to Mariska Hargitay’s Olivia Benson. He also played George Mendez on Orange is the New Black for which he was nominated for an Emmy award. One of his first roles was a supporting character in the 2004 remake of The Manchurian Candidate which starred Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep and his half-brother, Liev Schreiber.
Natascha McElhone (Dr. Halsey/Cortana)
Dr. Halsey is the brilliant scientist who created the Spartan super-soldier. She is also the creator of the Cortana artificial intelligence companion. Natascha McElhone appears as the AI Cortana though Jen Taylor voices the character. McElhone is best known for her roles on Designated Survivor, Californication and The Truman Show.
Jen Taylor (Cortana—voice)
Cortana is the AI developed by Dr. Halsey and becomes an assistant/companion of Master Chief in the series.
Yerin Ha (Kwan Ha)
Ha’s character, Kwan Ha, is original to the series. She is a teenager who gets entangled with Master Chief and his quest. Yerin Ha previously appeared in the television series, Reef Break and Troppo with Thomas Jane.
Bokeem Woodbine (Soren)
Soren is a former Spartan who escapes his military life in order to lead a quiet, somewhat normal life away from the fighting and killing. Woodbine has been acting since the mid-90s and has appeared in such films as Total Recall, Riddick, and Ghostbusters: Afterlife. On television, he has appeared in roles on Saving Grace, Southland, and Fargo.
When does HALO premiere?
HALO premieres on Thursday, March 24 exclusively on Paramount+. Episodes will drop weekly on Thursdays.
How many seasons of HALO are there?
Currently, there is one season of HALO.
Will there be a season 2 of HALO?
Yes! Paramount+ announced a second season of HALO ahead of the first season premiere. “HALO takes us into a dazzling world that we believe will enthrall audiences as much with its electrifying visuals as its bold, character-driven storytelling,” said David Nevins, chief content officer of scripted originals, Paramount+, and chairman and chief executive officer, Showtime Networks Inc. “This second-season pickup reflects the confidence we have in the power of this epic series to attract and engage viewers. HALO has been a great collaboration with Amblin and 343 Industries, and we are all grateful for the opportunity to continue it.”
How many episodes are there in the first season of HALO?
There are 10 episodes in season 1 of HALO.
Does Parade.com have a sneak peek of the series premiere of HALO?
We sure do! Check out this Parade.com exclusive first look at the series premiere of HALO.
Is there a trailer for HALO?
Yes. Paramount+ released a new trailer during SXSW. Next, Best Online Games to Play With Friends
