ESPN revealed Tuesday that it will release its 10-part documentary on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ 1997-98 season–a project titled “The Last Dance”–two months ahead of schedule to make up for the lack of sports content during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Originally slated to air in June to coincide with the NBA Finals, the project is now set to begin on April 19.

The documentary series is marketed as an in-depth look at the Bulls’ sixth, and final, championship run during a time where they were the preeminent dynasty in all of sports, and where Jordan was getting set to retire for the second time in his legendary career.

“As society navigates this time without live sports, viewers are still looking to the sports world to escape and enjoy a collective experience,” ESPN said in a statement. “We’ve heard the calls from fans asking us to move up the release date for this series, and we’re happy to announce that we’ve been able to accelerate the production schedule to do just that. This project celebrates one of the greatest players and dynasties ever, and we hope it can serve as a unifying entertainment experience to fill the role that sports often play in our lives, telling a story that will captivate everyone, not just sports fans.”

The team allowed an NBA Entertainment crew to follow them throughout that season. Some of the never-before-seen footage will be featured in the documentary, as well as interviews from numerous athletes, coaches and celebrities–including former president Barack Obama and UNC head coach Roy Williams. Obama is a noted Bulls fan, while Williams was one of Jordan’s assistant coaches during his time playing at UNC.

“Michael Jordan and the ’90s Bulls weren’t just sports superstars, they were a global phenomenon,” director Jason Hehir said in a statement. “Making ‘The Last Dance’ was an incredible opportunity to explore the extraordinary impact of one man and one team. 

 

Photo via Todd Melet

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