By Maurice Bobb
America already watched Michael Sam become the first openly gay player in the NFL when the St. Louis Rams drafted him 249th overall on Saturday, and now, they’ll get to see the how 24-year-old defensive got there in a new documentary series.
Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network announced Wednesday (May 14) that their docu-series will follow the former SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year as he attempts to earn a spot on the Rams.
According to the press release, the yet-untitled show will be “a deeply personal, up-close look at the remarkable man at the center of this groundbreaking moment in professional sports.
“Like every player out there working to make a team right now, my focus is on playing football to the very best of my ability,” Sam said. “I am determined. And if seeing my story helps somebody else accept who they are and to go for their dreams too, that’s great. I am thankful to Oprah for her support and excited to work together.”
While Sam continues to be a beacon of hope for the gay and lesbian community, cameras will follow him as he faces to duality of making the Rams’ regular season roster all while under the intense scrutiny of his sexual orientation.
“We are honored that Michael is trusting us with his private journey in this moment that has not only made history but will shape it forever,” Winfrey said in a statement. “I am proud of the focus on authentic storytelling in our new documentary series format. The next real-life story we follow in The Untitled Michael Sam Project promises to spark valuable, important discussion on life in America today. Acceptance and illumination start here.”
Craig Piligian and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Amy Rice, who also helmed the network’s docu-series on Lindsay Lohan, will serve as producers for the show.
No premiere date has been announced yet.
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