Ian Wright's life is set to be portrayed on screen as the Arsenal legend's childhood struggles and successes are to be shown in a new biopic co-produced by Stormzy
Ian Wright
Ian Wright's life is to be shown in a new biopic(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
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Arsenal icon Ian Wright's life is set to be played out on the big screen. The football legend might be best known for hitting the back of the net, but now the former sports star's life away from the pitch is set to be broadcast.
Wright's journey from a child on the Honor Oak Estate in Brockley, south London will be portrayed, with the star's struggles laid bare. But a teacher's input sparked home for him and despite rejections and internal rage, what panned out was stuff of dreams.
Before ending up as Arsenal's second-top scored in history and Crystal Palace's Player of the Century, Wright led a life that included childhood trauma. But as well as this he opened up to an inspiring teacher and a sibling who always looked out for him.
Ian Wright is an Arsenal legend
Ian Wright is an Arsenal legend(Image: Mirrorpix)
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His story is a deeply moving one of heartache, determination and unbelievable triumph and producers - and Wright - are determined to showcase it.
From a housing estate in South London to dreams of playing at the World Cup, the production looks at whether natural talent and hard work are truly enough to achieve the improbable.
The pundit admits that telling is tale on screen feels "surreal" but confesses it was a long time coming. After the announcement, he said: "There are parts of my life that will be familiar because they’ve been talked about over the years, but this film is the first time we’re bringing it all together.
"Retelling my story to Tom has also made me realise how much Britain has changed from my parents arriving here on the Windrush, what that meant for me and my brothers, and the experiences that will never leave me. I hope it shows how complicated life can be for a young person and the influence people around you can have – good and bad."
Stormzy
Stormzy is to co-produce the biopic(Image: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publis)
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And he said there will be plenty of hard-hitting moments play out for viewers, but he hopes it gives them "hope and joy".
At the announcement of being co-producer music giant Stormzy called his role a "real honour". "Wrighty’s journey goes far beyond football," he says. "It’s about resilience, family and believing in yourself against the odds.
"He’s inspired generations on and off the pitch and we’re so proud to help bring such an important and powerful story to the screen."
After retiring from playing football in 2000, Wright has went on to be one of football’s most revered broadcasters. As a champion of the women’s game and highlighting the impact on children growing up in domestic violence, Ian has transcended the world of football.
He was awarded an OBE by Prince William in 2023. At the time, the star also also noted his honour in supporting the Jordan Sinnott Foundation for grassroots sports.