This episode of the NFL Network on going series focused on the life and playing career of Jerry Smith.
Smith was a star tight end for the Washington Redskins from the late 60's and into the 70's. The documentary tells the secret life Smith hid from many. Jerry Smith was a gay man in the NFL at a time when an openly gay player would not be warmly welcomed. The documentary focuses on Smith's life, his struggle to hide his secret life, and the ultimate price he would pay. Dave Kopay, who was a one time teammate of Smith's and the first NFL player to "come out of the closet", is interviewed. Kopay expands well on the friendship he had with Smith.
The show also focuses on Smith's life post career, and his continued struggles. Sadly, Smith would become the first American athlete to contract and die from the AIDS virus.
This gripping and tear-jerker stands out as well of the most emotional shows of the series. In the A Football Life extra. which aired after the show, two of Smith's former teammates are interviewed. Calvin Hill, and Brig Owens. Owens stated in no uncertain terms that if Jerry Smith had been a heterosexual man, he would have already been enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
It's not often that one can write a review of any special involving the NFL, and use the term "tear jerker." This well produced documentary will tug at your heart, and give you plenty to think about.
Smith was a star tight end for the Washington Redskins from the late 60's and into the 70's. The documentary tells the secret life Smith hid from many. Jerry Smith was a gay man in the NFL at a time when an openly gay player would not be warmly welcomed. The documentary focuses on Smith's life, his struggle to hide his secret life, and the ultimate price he would pay. Dave Kopay, who was a one time teammate of Smith's and the first NFL player to "come out of the closet", is interviewed. Kopay expands well on the friendship he had with Smith.
The show also focuses on Smith's life post career, and his continued struggles. Sadly, Smith would become the first American athlete to contract and die from the AIDS virus.
This gripping and tear-jerker stands out as well of the most emotional shows of the series. In the A Football Life extra. which aired after the show, two of Smith's former teammates are interviewed. Calvin Hill, and Brig Owens. Owens stated in no uncertain terms that if Jerry Smith had been a heterosexual man, he would have already been enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
It's not often that one can write a review of any special involving the NFL, and use the term "tear jerker." This well produced documentary will tug at your heart, and give you plenty to think about.