Ava Duvernay and Netflix recently announced her docuseries “Colin in Back & White” which chronicles the legendary social activist’s rise from high school jock to the leader of a world movement against police brutality, social injustice, and systemic racism.
The Walt Disney Company is also getting into the Kaepernick business.
The blackballed QB will be featured in an exclusive docuseries produced by ESPN Films and former ESPN star Jemele Hill, as part of a first-look deal with The Walt Disney Co.
Colin Kaepernick will be featured in an exclusive docuseries produced by ESPN Films as part of a first-look deal with The Walt Disney Co. https://t.co/iAMkw2ovKc
— WISH-TV (@WISH_TV) July 6, 2020
The deal between Kaepernick’s production arm, Ra Vision Media, and The Walt Disney Co. was announced Monday.
The partnership will focus on telling scripted and unscripted stories that explore race, social injustice and the quest for equity. It also will provide a platform to showcase the work of minority directors and producers.
“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.”
The docuseries chronicling Kaepernick’s journey and his last five years is the first project in development.
“Developing exceptional storytelling told through a wide array of voices is at the core of who we are at ESPN,” ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro said. “Colin has had a singular path as both an athlete and an activist, and, as the nation continues to confront racism and social injustice, it feels particularly relevant to hear Colin’s voice on his evolution and motivations.”
His deal with The Walt Disney Co. will extend across all Disney platforms, including Walt Disney Television, ESPN, Hulu, Pixar and The Undefeated.
“During this unprecedented time, The Walt Disney Co. remains committed to creating diverse and inclusive content that resonates and matters,” said Bob Iger, Disney’s executive chairman. “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.”
