Former NFL quarterback-turned-activist Colin Kaepernick has agreed to a deal with the Walt Disney Company, which will include a docuseries produced by ESPN Films.
The series, part of an agreement with Kaepernick’s production company Ra Vision Media, will focus on exploring race, societal injustices, and the fight for equality and will highlight “the work of Black and Brown directors and producers,” according to a press release from ESPN on Monday.
“During this unprecedented time, The Walt Disney Company remains committed to creating diverse and inclusive content that resonates and matters. Colin’s experience gives him a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, culture and race, which will undoubtedly create compelling stories that will educate, enlighten and entertain, and we look forward to working with him on this important collaboration,” said Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger.
The first installment will focus on the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback’s journey from athlete to activist “using extensive new interviews and a vast never-before-seen archive that documents his last five years.”
“I am excited to announce this historic partnership with Disney across all of its platforms to elevate Black and Brown directors, creators, storytellers, and producers, and to inspire the youth with compelling and authentic perspectives,” Kaepernick said in a statement. “I look forward to sharing the docuseries on my life story, in addition to many other culturally impactful projects we are developing.”
Kaepernick began kneeling during the Star-Spangled Banner in 2016 to raise awareness about police brutality and social injustice. Although Kaepernick has been out of the NFL since the 2016 season, his demonstrations inspired scores of other athletes across multiple sports leagues followed his model, drawing the ire of President Trump and many conservatives who accused them of disrespecting the flag.
Last month, as protests swept across the country following the death in police custody of George Floyd, the NFL walked back its position on opposing players kneeling during the national anthem.
“We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the National Football League, believe Black Lives Matter,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a video statement. “I personally protest with you and want to be part of the much needed change in this country.”
