Exploring the Life and Legacy of Aaron Hernandez in Season 1 of 'American Sports Story'
Get ready to delve into the captivating life and enduring legacy of the late Aaron Hernandez in the highly anticipated season 1 of 'American Sports Story' Discover the star-studded cast, gripping storyline, and stay tuned for the official release date!
Aaron Hernandez Michael DeHoog/Sports Imagery/ Getty Images
Ryan Murphy's American Sports Story will center around Aaron Hernandez, the late NFL star. The upcoming TV show is inspired by The Boston Globe and Wondery's podcast series "Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc" from 2018.
The upcoming series, a spin-off of Murphy's American Story franchise, will explore various aspects of Hernandez's life, including his identity, family, career, death, and legacy, according to a November 2023 report from Variety.
Hernandez played as a tight end for the New England Patriots from 2010 to 2013. He was arrested in June 2013 for the murder of Odin Lloyd and was convicted two years later. In April 2015, he was found guilty of first-degree murder. Following that, he faced charges for the double homicide of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado in 2012 but was acquitted in April 2017. A few days after the acquittal, Hernandez tragically took his own life while in prison.
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FX acquired American Sports Story in August 2021 as an anthological series that delves into a range of captivating events from the world of sports.
Josh Andrés Rivera, slated to portray Hernandez in the forthcoming series, openly discussed the exhilarating and distinct challenge involved in bringing the departed athlete to life.
"The narrative is intricate, as most people familiar with it are aware. There's the aspect of mental well-being, criminal activity, wealth, and fame, all intertwined," he shared with Deadline in November 2023. "As an actor, it's like a dream come true to be handed such an incredibly rich character to immerse myself in."
Keep scrolling for more details on American Sports Story:
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Who Is Starring in ‘American Sports Story’ Season 1?
Rivera is “excited” to take on the role of Hernandez and will undergo a physical transformation before stepping into the former NFL star’s shoes.
"They're working toward maximizing my potential, aiming for NFL-level fitness which is quite challenging. The individuals involved are truly imposing figures," he stated, in an interview with Deadline.
Additionally, Patrick Schwarzenegger, who will portray Hernandez's college comrade and former NFL player Tim Tebow, is set to star in the series.
"I am thrilled to announce that I will be portraying Tim Tebow in the upcoming film," Schwarzenegger excitedly shared on Instagram in November 2023. "The story of Aaron Hernandez's life and career is absolutely mind-blowing. As a huge football fan, I thought I knew it all, but it's even crazier than I imagined! It is a true honor to be involved in this project and bring such an incredible character to life. I cannot wait to share this captivating story with the world."
Completing the talented cast are Tony Yazbeck and Lindsay Mendez, who will portray Urban Meyer, the head coach at the University of Florida, and Tanya Singleton, Hernandez's cousin, respectively.
What Is ‘American Sports Story’ Season 1 About?
The upcoming series will explore the pre-2017 life of Hernandez, based on the highly acclaimed podcast "Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc" which was produced in partnership with The Boston Globe and Wondery in 2018.
Does ‘American Sports Story’ Have a Release Date?
FX has not yet announced a release date for American Sports Story season 1.
