I would admit that’s why I didn’t watch the program when it first came on the air. I was skeptical about the motivation surrounding the show; but when I was confronted with a boring evening and the realization that I might have went overboard with the conspiracy theory; I decided to watch. I do understand that one of the cool things about the 30 for 30, is that they remind us of the impact that sports related events has had on our culture. However the extra promotion surrounding the release of this five part series didn’t soothe my conspiracy fire. Throughout the NBA Finals that aired on ESPN partner network ABC, there was an ad almost every commercial break for the series. On top of that there was a ten episode show on FX titled American Crime Story: The People v. OJ Simpson that ended in April. So now that I think about it; that’s why I was skeptical about the documentary. They were promoting the shit out of murder trial that happened 20 years ago. But I digress; let’s just say I watched the episode with a side eye.
Like I said it was good entertainment, but before I could get around to watching the other four parts, I had to address this issue of OJ being a sellout. That was the sentiment I heard from various people around the internet who watched Part One. But after I watched it; I felt different. I don’t believe OJ was a sellout. I should also preference that by saying I understand. My understanding may be considered a rationale for OJ’s early behavior. And I get the people who don’t understand. But I get the idea of sticking with the plan. I get the passion of trying to change your situation despite the obstacles surrounding you. To be clear, I know what it feels like to be poor in the ghetto and trying to do anything you can to get out the ghetto. “Football has been my vehicle to come out the ghetto.” OJ Simpson said in an interview segment that appeared in the documentary.
Like the strippers said in the movie The Players Club; you got to use what you got to get what you want. In the case of OJ Simpson he wanted a better life and he ran the football to get it. Some of us make the sacrifice when we go to job that we hate, for a boss we don’t like. We want a better life for ourselves and family. When it was time for OJ to capitalize on his talents, he ignored the social climate of his era and got paid. Smile, endorse the product and then kick ass on the field. His blueprint has been followed by Jordan, Tiger and other successful athletes. Not surprisingly these guys have also been called sellouts. Yet people still wanted to “be like Mike” and Tiger Woods is still adored despite his streak of losing. And during the height of his popularity; people wanted to be like OJ.
“This is a important moment. The young black kid seeing a black man running on television. And that’s all he sees. He says that look likes my uncle Reggie.” That’s something I can do; I want to be like OJ on television.” Novelist Walter Mosley said in the documentary. Of course money and fame is not the end all, be all. Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown and other prominent athletes have courageously put their beliefs and integrity over money and fame and still remain glorious. Others have not. I just ask the question when does the choice of standing for your beliefs and people become an obligation?