Through Grit and Glory, a 16-episode original documentary series honoring baseball star Willie Mays’ life and legacy, has been formally announced by Netflix. The show is positioned as the ultimate examination of one of the greatest players in sports history, presenting a multifaceted picture of a man whose brilliance, love of the game, and quiet tenacity changed baseball forever.
Mays’ historic achievements, like as his 660 home runs, 24 All-Star selections, numerous Gold Gloves, and his iconic over-the-shoulder catch in the 1954 World Seriesβwidely considered one of the greatest performances in sports historyβare revisited in the series. Viewers will experience the unique blend of speed, power, defense, and instinct that gave Mays the enduring moniker “The Say Hey Kid” through restored archival footage and professional analysis.
Through Grit and Glory explores the man behind the legend, going beyond the numbers. The show examines Mays’ contagious passion, leadership, and impact on succeeding generations of athletes, especially African American athletes. It also looks at the demands of celebrity, the duty of serving as an example during the Civil Rights movement, and the self-control needed to maintain excellence over a 20-year period.
The show situates Mays’ influence within the larger story of American sports and culture through interviews with former teammates, family members, historians, and contemporary stars who were influenced by him. According to Netflix, the movie tells the tale of a player who played with flare but carried himself with dignityβa tale of genius rooted in humility.
Through Grit and Glory is a potent homage to Willie Mays, celebrating a life characterized by excellence attained, obstacles surmounted, and a passion for the game that endures beyond generations.