amber@northstarreporter.com
The life of former NFL star Aaron Hernandez, marked by both triumph and tragedy, is back in the spotlight with FX’s new drama “American Sports Story.”
The series revisits Hernandez’s past in North Attleborough, where his residence became infamous in 2013 following the murder of Odin Lloyd, a semi-professional football player. Lloyd, who was dating the sister of Hernandez’s fiancée, Shayanna Jenkins, was found dead near Hernandez’s home, leading to his arrest and conviction in 2015. Hernandez’s trial gripped the nation, casting a shadow over North Attleborough as details of his violent actions and eventual suicide in 2017 unfolded.
The series’ first installment is based on the podcast “Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football,” from The Boston Globe and Wondery. Viewers are invited to explore the complexities of Hernandez’s life, including his struggles with mental health, familial challenges and the pressures that often accompany fame in professional sports.
Josh Rivera, who plays Hernandez, spoke with Good Morning America, and emphasized the show’s commitment to providing deeper emotional context. He noted that the creators aim “not to excuse or justify anything but to give background that you might not otherwise get.” This thoughtful portrayal encourages viewers to grapple with the multifaceted nature of Hernandez’s identity, from celebrated athlete to convicted murderer.
The series offers an in-depth exploration of Hernandez’s complex legacy and its broader implications for American sports culture. As North Attleborough reflects on this story, the FX series invites the community to engage with the difficult truths surrounding fame, tragedy, and the consequences of one’s actions.
