Colin Kaepernick will appear in an exclusive series of docuseries produced by ESPN Films as part of a first-look deal with The Walt Disney Co.
The deal between Kaepernick’s production arm, Ra Vision Media, and Disney was announced Monday. The association will focus on storytelling and unscripted stories that explore race, social injustice, and the pursuit of equity. It will also provide a platform to showcase the work of minority directors and producers.
“I am excited to announce this historic partnership with Disney on all of its platforms to elevate Black and Brown directors, creators, storytellers, and producers and inspire young people with compelling and authentic perspectives,” Kaepernick said in a statement. “I hope to share the docuseries about my life story, in addition to many other culturally impactful projects that we are developing.”
Despite having been exiled from the NFL since the 2016 season, when he knelt during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality, Kaepernick still wants to play.
A person close to the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback told The Associated Press that Kaepernick is in great shape and ready to play, but has not received a call.
Following nationwide protests after George Floyd’s death, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell apologized to the players for not listening to their concerns about racial inequality earlier. He encouraged them to protest peacefully and denounced racism.
Kaepernick, who became the face of a Nike campaign in 2018, will work closely with The Undefeated, which is expanding its portfolio at Disney, to develop stories from the perspective of black and brown communities.
Its agreement with The Walt Disney Co. will extend to all Disney platforms, including Walt Disney Television, ESPN, Hulu, Pixar and The Undefeated.
“During this unprecedented time, The Walt Disney Company remains committed to creating diverse and inclusive content that resonates and matters,” said Bob Iger, chief executive of Disney. “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.”
The docuseries that narrate Kaepernick’s journey and his last five years is the first project in development. The series will include new interviews and other elements never seen before as part of the docuseries. Jemele Hill, who previously worked for ESPN and The Undefeated, is a producer on the project.
“Developing exceptional stories told through a wide range of voices is at the core of who we are at ESPN,” said ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro. “Colin has had a unique path as an athlete and activist, and as the nation continues to face racism and social injustice, it feels particularly relevant to hear Colin’s voice on his evolution and motivations.”
Associated Press contributed to this report.
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