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LeBron James, one of the greatest NBA players in the world, is looking to tell the story of another athlete, who, like James, dominated in his respective sport, all while using his platform to stand up for what he believes in.
In a two-part documentary titled, “What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali,” James will explore the life of the late legendary boxer and his impact on the world and culture. With the full participation of Ali’s estate, James and Maverick Carter will executive produce the project, which will be the first feature-length production from their SpringHill Entertainment.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, who directed “Training Day,” “Southpaw,” and “The Magnificent Seven,” the documentary will also be uniquely narrated by Ali’s own words, accompanied by never-before-seen footage.
“Muhammad Ali transcended sports in a way the world had never seen before,” James said of Ali’s impact. “It’s an honor to have the opportunity to tell his incredible and important story for the coming generation. He showed us all the courage and conviction it takes to stand up for what you believe in. He changed forever what we expect a champion to be, and I’m grateful that SpringHill gets to be a part of continuing his legacy.”
The documentary is set to premiere on HBO in May after it was personally pitched by James himself.
“Muhammad Ali is indisputably one of the most iconic and distinctive figures in the history of sports,” the president of HBO Miniseries and Cinemax Programming said. “His impact resonates far beyond the boxing ring and is woven deep into the cultural and social tapestry of the second half of the 20th century. His personality, his voice, his message and his legacy all endure as an important element of American history. From the moment LeBron James told us of his deep visceral connection to Ali’s life and legacy, we were committed to helping him, and Antoine Fuqua realize this film about one man’s incredible journey and the impact he had upon the world.”
Ali’s widow also opened up about the importance of the film, saying, “We are at a time in American history when we look to a new generation of heroes like LeBron James to carry on Muhammad’s legacy, not only by remembering Muhammad, as is done so eloquently in this documentary but also through their own words and deeds.”
“I’m grateful to LeBron, Maverick Carter, SpringHill Entertainment and HBO for advancing the ideals that Muhammed believed in and fought for throughout his life,” she said.
