Get ready to dive into the dark side of sports with Ryan Murphy’s latest creation, “American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez.” This FX limited series, from the mastermind behind “American Horror Story” and “Glee,” is set to tackle one of the most jaw-dropping tales in recent sports history. The newly dropped trailer teases a gripping look at the meteoric rise and devastating downfall of the NFL’s Aaron Hernandez. It’s a story that’s equal parts thrilling and chilling, sure to leave you on the edge of your seat—and maybe even a little spooked!
From the outset, the trailer paints a vivid picture of Aaron Hernandez’s meteoric rise in the world of football. We witness his journey from a promising high school athlete to a standout player at the University of Florida, where he shared the field with future NFL star Tim Tebow, portrayed by Patrick Schwarzenegger. Hernandez’s talent and drive propelled him to the pinnacle of success, earning him a coveted spot on the New England Patriots roster, where he caught passes from the legendary Tom Brady.
However, beneath the veneer of athletic prowess and fame, the trailer hints at a darker undercurrent. Josh Andrés Rivera, who portrays Hernandez, delivers a chilling line: “You don’t know the kind of thoughts I had. It’s like a demon. What if God made me this way?” These haunting words foreshadow the complex layers of Hernandez’s psyche and the demons that plagued him off the field.
Josh Andrés Rivera is best known for his role as Chino in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 adaptation of “West Side Story”. His performance in this critically acclaimed film brought him significant attention, as it was a high-profile role in a major Hollywood production. He also starred in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”. He played the role of Sejanus Plinth, a character in the prequel to the original Hunger Games series. The movie was a box office success and he achieved critical acclaim for his role in the movie.
“American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez” promises to delve deep into the complexities of Hernandez’s life, exploring his struggles with his sexuality, his tumultuous relationship with his family, and the violent crimes that ultimately led to his downfall. The series is based on the acclaimed podcast “Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc.” from The Boston Globe and Wondery, ensuring a comprehensive and well-researched examination of the events that unfolded.
With an impressive ensemble cast that includes Tammy Blanchard as Terri Hernandez and Lindsay Mendez as Tanya Singleton, the series aims to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of Hernandez’s life, offering a nuanced portrayal of a deeply troubled individual.
Beyond the gripping narrative, “American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez” serves as a stark reminder of the darker underbelly that can lurk beneath the glitz and glamour of professional sports. It prompts viewers to question the pressures and expectations placed upon athletes, and the potential consequences when personal demons are left unchecked.
The new anthology series is brought to life by none other than Hollywood powerhouse Ryan Murphy. Known for shaking up the TV landscape with iconic shows like “American Crime Story” and “American Horror Story,” Murphy is back at it with “American Sports Story.”
This series is set to be a riveting deep dive into the tangled web of sports, fame, and the fragility of the human spirit. It’s more than just a show—it’s a conversation starter, destined to leave a mark on audiences and ignite discussions far beyond the sports world. With the premiere set for September 17, the buzz is building for this gripping and haunting tale that will unravel one of the most heartbreaking stories in sports history.
