"Colin's experience gives him a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, culture and race, which will undoubtedly create compelling stories," says Disney's Bob Iger
Tuesday 7 July 2020 10:10, UK
Colin Kaepernick will be featured in a documentary series exploring race and social injustice, it was announced on Monday.
The deal between Kaepernick's production arm Ra Vision Media and The Walt Disney Company will focus on telling scripted and unscripted stories, and explore themes of diversity and equality.
It is hoped that the series will help to showcase the talents of black and minority ethnic directors and producers and continue the conversation around correcting injustices in society.
The announcement follows news in June that former NFL quarterback Kaepernick would team up with Netflix for a six-part series exploring his formative years.
"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 has not played in the NFL since the 2016 season when he gained widespread attention for taking a knee during the national anthem while a member of the San Francisco 49ers.
His focus was to draw attention to the issues of police brutality and racial inequality, helping to inspire similar acts across the world.
There have been calls for Kaepernick to be reinstated in the league, with Los Angeles Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn among those to praise the quarterback's skillset.
Following the nationwide protests in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell apologised to players for not listening to them earlier.
Kaepernick, who became the face of a Nike campaign in 2018, will work closely with The Undefeated, which is expanding its portfolio to develop stories from marginalised voices and communities.
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."
ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro added: "Developing exceptional storytelling told through a wide array of voices is at the core of who we are at ESPN.
"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."
A docuseries chronicling Kaepernick's journey and his last five years is the first project in development.
