BREAKING NEWS: Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Wigan Warriors Men’s Football Legend Steve Alford, Slated for Release on May 15th
By [Your Name], Sports Correspondent
May 1, 2025 — London, UK
In a major announcement that has thrilled football fans and documentary enthusiasts alike, Netflix has officially released the trailer for “The Underdog,” a powerful and deeply personal documentary chronicling the life and career of Steve Alford, the Wigan Warriors men’s football legend. The streaming giant confirmed today that the film will be available globally on May 15th, 2025.
This gripping documentary is already being hailed as one of the most anticipated sports releases of the year, promising viewers an unfiltered look at one of English football’s most determined and resilient figures.
A Story of Grit, Glory, and Redemption
Steve Alford, once dismissed as too small, too slow, and not cut out for professional football, carved out an unforgettable legacy during his two-decade-long tenure with the Wigan Warriors. Known for his work ethic, leadership, and fierce loyalty, Alford defied expectations to become not only a captain but a club legend. “The Underdog” dives deep into his journey — from his early days growing up in the industrial heartlands of Lancashire, to leading Wigan to one of the most historic cup wins in club history.
Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes access, the documentary traces Alford’s formative years, career highs and lows, and the private battles he fought off the pitch — including a near career-ending injury and his public struggles with mental health.
“He Represented the Working Class Spirit”
Directed by acclaimed British filmmaker Lorna Fields, known for her work on “Boots and Dreams: The Rise of Sunday League Stars”, the film paints a vivid portrait of a man who embodied the tenacity of working-class football.
“Steve Alford’s story isn’t just about football,” Fields said in a statement released by Netflix. “It’s about defiance. It’s about community. It’s about what happens when you give everything to a sport — and what it takes to rebuild when that sport doesn’t always give back.”
The documentary features commentary from former teammates, coaches, sports journalists, and Alford’s own family. Interviews with football icons such as Gary Lineker, Roy Keane, and Wigan manager Paul Cook add further context to Alford’s impact both on and off the field.
A Netflix Original With International Appeal
“The Underdog” is part of Netflix’s ongoing push to produce compelling sports content with global resonance. Recent hits such as “Sunderland ‘Til I Die” and “Quarterback” have drawn huge audiences, and early reactions suggest “The Underdog” may surpass them in emotional depth and narrative strength.
The streaming platform announced that the documentary will feature localized subtitles and dubbed versions in over 15 languages, ensuring that Alford’s story reaches a wide, diverse audience.
Alford Speaks Out Ahead of the Release
Speaking from his home in Greater Manchester, Alford, now 47, shared his thoughts on the documentary in a brief interview with Sky Sports.
“I was nervous at first,” he admitted. “There’s a lot in there I haven’t spoken about publicly before — tough times, stuff I carried on my own for years. But if my story can help even one young lad out there to keep going when it gets hard, then it’s worth it.”
He added, “Wigan gave me everything. The fans, the club — they made me who I am. This film is for them.”
Critical Buzz Builds Ahead of Premiere
Early screenings of “The Underdog” for select press and industry insiders have garnered rave reviews. Critics have praised its raw honesty, stirring soundtrack, and emotional storytelling.
Tom Bradbury, editor of FourFourTwo, called it “the most moving football documentary since ‘The Class of ’92’,” while The Guardian’s sports columnist Sarah Jones described it as “a beautiful, bruising portrait of a man and a game that nearly broke him.”
Where to Watch
“The Underdog” will be available for streaming on Netflix worldwide starting May 15th, 2025. The premiere will be accompanied by a special virtual Q&A featuring Steve Alford, director Lorna Fields, and select cast and crew, streamed live on Netflix’s YouTube channel.
For fans of football, underdog tales, or simply stories of human resilience, “The Underdog” promises to be an unmissable watch.
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