College football star and recent NFL draft pick Michael Sam will be the subject of a documentary series on the Oprah Winfrey Network.
Sam, who won the Co-Defensive Player of the Year honor as a defensive end at the University of Missouri, was recently drafted by the St. Louis Rams and is working to become the first openly gay player in the league’s history.
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“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. “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.”
The series will track Sam’s transition to professional football, with cameras following him as he works to earn his spot on the St. Louis Rams all while under the intense scrutiny of being an out-of-the-closet football star in the NFL.
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“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.”
OWN is partnering with Craig Piligian’s Pilgrim Studios and filmmaker Amy Rice (“Lindsay”) to produce the documentary series, which currently bears the working title “The Untitled Michael Sam Project.”