Later on tonight, the first of a two part documentary centering on the life and career of former NFL quarterback Michael Vick premieres on ESPN. The documentary is expected to take a look back at the rise, fall, and ultimate return of the polarizing player.
Mike Vick went from being the biggest thing in college football at Virginia Tech, to becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, to his career with the Falcons falling apart with his high-profile involvement in a dog-fighting ring that led him to a prison stint.
The documentary will air over two nights, with Part 2 premiering on February 6.
“As a historical documentary filmmaker, I was interested in placing Michael Vick’s life within larger historical narratives — narratives about race and sports, poverty and power, and about the criminal justice system,” Nelson said in a statement provided by ESPN. “In the film, we get to see how Vick’s childhood affects the choices he makes, as well as how these larger social forces shape his trajectory.”
The first part traces Vick’s rise from his Newport News roots to stardom at Virginia Tech to becoming one of the faces of the NFL. The second part deals with his conviction and imprisonment for dog-fighting and his return to the NFL.
