ESPN Films has greenlit a “30 for 30” documentary about Billie Jean King, now in production with Ridley Scott Associates and Story Syndicate, in association with Elton John’s Rocket Sports.
Tennis Battle of the Sexes special (September 20, 1973)
The documentary is being touted as "the unfiltered, untold story of how King broke the rules and proved her critics wrong." Told in King's own voice, the film centers on one year that defines her life and career: 1973.
The documentary, directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus ("What Happened, Miss Simone?") and Elizabeth Wolff ("I'll Be Gone in the Dark"), promises to shed new light on King's life and her transformative impact on sports and society.
"Billie Jean King's legacy is like no other," said Garbus. "She is a generational athlete, a pioneer in women's sports, and a leader in the fight for equal pay and against discrimination in sports and society. Her courage and grit are unmatched as she risked everything so that everyone had a chance to succeed. Elizabeth and I are so excited to introduce Billie Jean to a whole new generation of young people who will see themselves standing on her shoulders and be inspired to continue to fight for equality."
