sam

The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has secured the rights to film and televise a reality series that will follow the life of Michael Sam.

Sam became the first openly gay player to be drafted by the NFL when the St. Louis Rams selected him in the 7th round of last week’s draft. 

Cameras for the network were with Sam when he received the call that he was drafted and will follow him through training camp as he tries to make the team.

The network said the working title for the series is “The Untitled Michael Sam Project.”

“We are honored that Michael is trusting us with his private journey in this moment that has not only made history but will shape it forever,” said Winfrey, in a statement. “I am proud of the focus on authentic storytelling in our new documentary series format. The next real-life story we follow in ‘The Untitled Michael Sam Project’ promises to spark valuable, important discussion on life in America today. Acceptance and illumination start here.”

“If seeing my story helps somebody else accept who they are and to go for their dreams too, that’s great,” Sam said, in a statement. “I am thankful to Oprah for her support and excited to work together.”

Read more at ESPN

Although he was the 249th pick in the draft, Sam has seen overwhelming popularity since his coming out. Sam’s jersey sales are second amongst the new draft class, coming just behind Heisman Trophy winner and first round draft pick Johnny Manziel. The series, broken into about eight episodes, will follow Sam’s NFL journey.

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