The History Channel has announced a new collaboration with the SpringHill Company, founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, to produce three compelling documentary projects. The first documentary, tentatively titled 'Triumph: Jesse Owens and the Berlin Olympics,' will delve into the remarkable story of Jesse Owens at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany. Against the backdrop of Hitler's white supremacist regime, Owens, a Black track and field athlete, made history by clinching four gold medals.
Directed by Andre Gaines and narrated by Don Cheadle, the two-hour documentary will feature a blend of archival footage, animation, and interviews with journalists, historians, Owens' daughters, and prominent athletes such as Carl Lewis, Noah Lyles, Erriyon Knighton, and Christian Coleman. The project is a collaboration between Uninterrupted, Cinemation Studios, and GroupM Motion Entertainment.
The second documentary project focuses on the legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, the first Native American Olympic gold medalist, known for his prowess in baseball, football, and basketball. Directed by Chris Eyre, this documentary is a joint effort between Uninterrupted, INE Entertainment, Five All in the Fifth, and GroupM Motion.
Both documentaries are executive produced by a team that includes James, Carter, and other industry veterans. A+E Networks will handle worldwide distribution rights for 'Triumph: Jesse Owens and the Berlin Olympics' and 'Jim Thorpe.' Details about the third project are yet to be revealed.
LeBron James expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the importance of sharing significant historical narratives with a new generation. The History Channel's Executive Vice President, Eli Lehrer, highlighted the commitment to showcasing diverse stories that broaden perspectives and inspire audiences.
This collaboration underscores the SpringHill Company's mission to tell impactful stories, while the History Channel aims to engage viewers with compelling narratives that enrich their understanding of history and society. The documentaries on Jesse Owens and Jim Thorpe are set to captivate audiences with their exploration of two iconic sports figures and their enduring legacies.
