ESPN Films has greenlit a “30 for 30” documentary about Billie Jean King, now in production at Ridley Scott Associates and Story Syndicate, in association with Elton John’s Rocket Sports.
The documentary is being touted as “the unfiltered, untold story of how King broke the rules and proved her critics wrong.” Told in King’s own voice, the film centers on a year that chronicles her life and career: 1973.
Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus (“What Happened, Miss Simone?”) and Elizabeth Wolff (“I’ll Be Gone in the Dark”), the documentary promises to shed new light on King’s life and her transformative impact on sports and sports. society.
“Billie Jean King’s legacy is like no other,” says Garbus. “She is a generational athletic talent, a pioneer in women’s sports and a leader in the fight for equal pay and against discrimination in sport and society. Her courage and her audacity are unparalleled, because she risked everything so that everyone had a chance at success. Elizabeth and I are so excited to introduce Billie Jean to a whole new generation of young people who will see that they stand on her shoulders and be inspired to continue fighting for equality.”
The documentary, produced by Dominic Crossley Holland, Dan Cogan and Jay de Andrade, is not the first to focus on King’s career. In 2006, HBO released “Billie Jean King: Portrait of a Pioneer,” and in 2013, PBS’ American Masters made a 90-minute documentary timed to commemorate the 40th anniversary of King’s “Battle of the Sexes” match with Bobby Riggs in 1973. chronicled the tennis star’s quest to win equal prize money for women and her own eventual outing, which made her an icon of the gay rights movement.
But King and her iconic story are the gift that keeps on giving, especially given the ongoing fight for gender equality in sports.
“When I was 12 years old, I dedicated my life to achieving equality for all,” says King. “That promise to myself has taken me on a journey of a lifetime filled with joy, heartbreak, grit and courage. I have worked my entire life to put women’s sports first. Today, girls and female athletes are living my dream. We hope to tell a story that will inspire future generations and positively impact the lives of others.”
Since its founding in 2008, ESPN Films has produced more than 100 sports documentaries, including the Osacr-winning “30 for 30” series “OJ: Made in America,” about OJ Simpson, and “The Last Dance,” about Michael Jordan.
“In 1973, Billie Jean King’s story was at a tipping point not only for his own legendary career, but also for America with abortion rights, LGBTIQA+ inclusion, the unfulfilled promise of equal rights.
Rights Amendment and the Vietnam War are all on a precipice,” Wolff said. “Billie Jean’s story is America’s story and Liz and I are excited to share how it is as transformative and relevant as ever.”
Marsha Cooke, who was named vice president and executive producer of ESPN Films and “30 for 30” in 2021, added: “This documentary aims to reveal the real Billie Jean – not just the champion on the court, but the relentless advocate for equity and equality. justice. Through her own voice and perspective, audiences will gain insight into her indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to change.”
Further details, including the doc’s premiere date, will be announced later this year.