- Share this article on Facebook
- Share this article on Twitter
- Share this article on Flipboard
- Share this article on Email
- Show additional share options
- Share this article on Linkedin
- Share this article on Pinit
- Share this article on Reddit
- Share this article on Tumblr
- Share this article on Whatsapp
- Share this article on Print
- Share this article on Comment
Oprah Winfrey’s OWN is postponing its Michael Sam docuseries.
The news comes amid reports that the NFL and the St. Louis Rams were unaware of Sam’s docuseries plans and just two days after the Discovery-owned cable network officially greenlighted the reality show. It is unclear when OWN will revisit the project.
STORY: OWN Lands Michael Sam Docuseries
“After careful consideration and discussion with the St. Louis Rams, the untitled Michael Sam project has been postponed, allowing Michael the best opportunity to achieve his dream of making the team,” said Erik Logan, president of OWN. “OWN is about elevating and empowering people to achieve their best. It’s clear that we, along with the world, recognize the important opportunity that Michael now has in this moment. We will continue to support him in his journey to earn a spot playing for the Rams.”
“After today’s meeting with the Rams, we collectively feel it is best to postpone the project,” said Sam’s agent Cameron Weiss. “This will allow for Michael to have a total focus on football and will ensure no distractions to his teammates. Everybody involved remains committed to this project and understands its historical importance as well as its positive message.”
The series was supposed to document the journey of the University of Missouri alum, a gay football player who was recently drafted by the Rams, as he prepared to earn a spot on the team.
VIDEO: Watch Michael Sam Kiss His Boyfriend After Historic NFL Draft
Craig Piligian and filmmaker Amy Rice, who were behind Lindsay Lohan’s Lindsay, were behind the untitled project.
Sam came out in February in interviews with The New York Times and ESPN. “I just want to make sure I could tell my story the way I want to tell it,” Sam told The Times. “I just want to own my truth.”
Sam was chosen by the Rams with the 249th overall pick of the NFL Draft on May 10, and ESPN televised an emotional Sam kissing his boyfriend after receiving the news.
Email: Philiana.Ng@THR.com
Twitter: @insidethetube
THR Newsletters
Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day