Kaylah Walton
When “The Last Dance” made its debut, it didn’t just honor the remarkable career of Michael Jordan, it became a worldwide sensation. The initial episodes marked ESPN’s top two most-viewed original broadcasts since 2004, captivating audiences across the globe.
Could this documentary have reached such extraordinary heights without the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic? According to the director, Jason Hehir, timing played a crucial role.
During a recent appearance on “Pablo Torre Finds Out,” Hehir shared his insights on the success of the series. Hehir expressed, “I still think that when it came out was probably the most generous, forgiving moment culturally of my lifetime. And that people were so grateful for anything new,” explaining the sentiment around the documentary’s release.
The pandemic significantly influenced the reception of the docuseries. Initially planned for a June 2020 release, “The Last Dance” was moved up to April due to the absence of live sports content. With the NBA season halted in March, sports enthusiasts were in need of content, and the documentary perfectly filled that void.
An Audience Hungry for Sports
The timing was impeccable as people found themselves confined to their homes, turning “The Last Dance” into a binge-watching phenomenon. It was a rare occasion where a non-live sports event captured the world’s attention, highlighting its enduring significance.
Fans and the wider basketball community indulged in the series, which showcased Michael Jordan’s trash-talking, competitive spirit, and unmatched skills on the court.
Yet, Hehir contemplated how different the reaction might have been under normal circumstances. He speculated that the series could have faced more scrutiny and criticism if it had premiered while LeBron James was actively playing.
The ongoing debate over who is the greatest of all time – Jordan or James – may have overshadowed the documentary’s focus on Jordan’s career, noted Hehir.
The “King” Takes a Backseat
The deliberate omission of LeBron James from the series was a conscious decision. Hehir stated, “Once you open that door, then you have to have that discussion. And I was never interested in having that discussion,” articulating his stance on including James in the narrative.
However, producer Andy Thompson reportedly initiated contact with James, sparking rumors about a potential docuseries on LeBron’s journey. Could a future project featuring both Jordan and James replicate the success of “The Last Dance”?
Presently, “The Last Dance” stands as a tribute to Michael Jordan’s legacy, enhanced by the unique circumstances of its release. The documentary not only entertained but also evoked nostalgia and unity during an unprecedented period, securing its place in sports history.
