In a time where all black history is needed and welcomed, Will Packer is here to deliver.
Will Packer is producing a biopic about Doug Williams, the first black Quarterback to win a Super Bowl during his time as a member of the Washington Redskins. The timely biopic will chart Williams’ storied career and his extraordinary journey to the top of the NFL, where he was known as a great leader beloved by his teammates. It will also explore how Williams helped shatter the myth that African American passers the skill-set to win at the sport’s highest level.
Packer and James Lopez will serve as the producers through Will Packer Productions. The LA-based production company secured exclusive rights to the Doug William biopic.
“As NFL Players today raise their voices around the fight for justice and equality, none stood taller than Doug Williams, who proved once and for all that the notion of an African American being ill-equipped to play quarterback was nothing more than a fallacy,” said Packer. “Doug’s inspirational story will positively impact fans of all ages for years to come.”
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In college, Williams became the Black College Player of the Year, twice. He would become the first black QB ever to be taken in the first round of the NFL draft. He became the only starting black NFL QB when he debuted for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but was also the lowest-paid QB in the league behind several backups. After a stint in the USFL, Williams went on to play QB for Washington, ultimately becoming a record-breaking MVP in their Super Bowl win over the Denver Broncos.
When speaking on Packer and Lopez, Williams added:
“There are no better individuals than Will Packer and James Lopez to really tell my story. Their unparalleled success in moviemaking ensures that my journey will be told with the upmost authenticity. I am very excited to be working with Will Packer Productions.”
A search is currently underway for a writer.
Packer recently produced the Tiffany Haddish and Kevin Hart comedy Night School as well as the Marsai Martin-led Little.
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Read first via The Hollywood Reporter.