The untitled drama was unveiled at Netflix's presentation last May with McGraw set to star and executive produce.
A source close to the actor-musician indicated that he had to undergo back surgery that would take recovery time. McGraw (pictured) is fresh off orthopedic surgery on both knees that he underwent in August following an injury suffered while on tour, which caused him to cancel the remainder of his 2024 concert dates.
McGraw's role in the Netflix series is physically demanding - set in the fierce, competitive world of rodeo riding, the drama follows a mega-champion (McGraw) who faces a life-or-death crossroads when he faces the arrival of a fearless young rider whose very existence challenges his ways and uncovers secrets that force him to confront his past.
In light of the impending new orthopedic surgery, McGraw is withdrawing from the role, allowing the project to move forward and the role to be recast.
The future of the series, which hails from Skydance Television and McGraw's Skydance-backed Down Home, is unclear. Representatives for Netflix and Skydance declined comment.
The rodeo riding drama was created and written by Brandon Camp, who would serve as co-showrunner with Taylor Elmore.
McGraw previously appeared in Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone (2018) and prequel series 1883.