Colin Kaepernick signs first-look deal with Walt Disney, including an exclusive ESPN docuseries on his life
Colin Kaepernick may have not had the best couple of years with the NFL but is now doing quite well for himself. As part of a first-look deal with The Walt Disney Company, the former quarterback is set to be featured in an exclusive docuseries produced by ESPN Films.
The partnership deal, between Kaepernick's production firm Ra Vision Media and Disney, was announced on Monday and will reportedly focus on telling "scripted and unscripted stories that explore race, social injustice and the quest for equity," according to ESPN. Furthermore, it will also reportedly provide minority directors and producers a "platform" to showcase their work. "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 still wants to play in the NFL despite being ousted from the league in 2016, when he kneeled during the national anthem throughout the season in a bid to protest racial injustice and police brutality.
Speaking to The Associated Press, a source close to Kaepernick said he's ready to play but hasn't received calls from any of the 32 teams thus far.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell extended an apology to players following nationwide protests in the aftermath of George Floyd's death, saying he should've listened to their concerns about racial inequality earlier. In fact, Goodell encouraged players to continue their protest "peacefully."
Kaepernick will work closely with The Undefeated, which is reportedly expanding its portfolio across Disney to develop stories specifically catering to the societal concerns of black and brown communities.
According to ESPN, Kaepernick's 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 Company 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."
That said, the docuseries chronicling the former San Francisco 49ers player and his last five years is the first project in development, featuring new interviews and other never-before-seen elements as part of Kaepernick's eventful journey. One of the producers on the project is Jemele Hill, who has previously worked for ESPN and The Undefeated.
"Developing exceptional storytelling told through a wide array of voices is at the core of who we are at ESPN," ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro commented. "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."