"American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez," created by Stuart Zicherman and based on the podcast 'Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc.,' premiered on FX in September 2024. The series delves into the life and crimes of Aaron Hernandez, the former New England Patriots tight end who was convicted of murder and committed suicide in prison.
One of the series' strengths lies in its ability to humanize Hernandez, exploring the complexities of his troubled upbringing, abusive father, and internalized homophobia. The show also highlights the role of the football industry in his downfall, with a focus on the culture of no consequences and the lack of support for players' mental health.
The performances are strong, with Josh Rivera capturing Hernandez's public persona with boyish charm and goofy charisma, while also instilling moments of doubt and impulsive rage with unsettling force. The standout performance is given by Yazbeck as Meyer, whose paternal warmth turns to ice-cold indifference.
The production values are high, with a gritty and realistic portrayal of Hernandez's life and the football-industrial complex. The fourth episode gives a brief glimpse into the NFL Scouting Combine, highlighting the harsh realities of the sport.
However, the series does have its shortcomings. The pacing can be uneven, with some episodes feeling rushed and others dragging on. Additionally, the show's approach to the NFL's role in Hernandez's downfall is equivocal, perhaps due to FX's desire not to antagonize the league.
Despite these shortcomings, "American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez" remains a compelling and thought-provoking series. It's a must-watch for fans of true crime and those interested in the dark side of professional sports.
Rating: 7 out of 10.
