Wayne Rooney's documentary sparks bidding war among major streamers

In the United Kingdom, Wayne Rooney, the former Manchester United and England football star, has embarked on a new documentary project that chronicles his first year as the manager of Plymouth Argyle. This project has garnered significant interest from major streaming platforms, including Disney+, Sky, Netflix, and Amazon, leading to a potential four-way bidding war. Filming for the documentary has already commenced, with a production crew spotted at recent Plymouth Argyle matches, which indicates that the project is actively in development. The documentary aims to provide a dual perspective on Rooney's life, showcasing both his professional journey as a football manager and his personal life at home with his wife, Coleen Rooney. The production is being handled by Lorton Entertainment, a company that has established an exclusive deal with the Rooneys. Lorton Entertainment is also known for creating the well-received documentary titled 'The Real Wagatha Story' for Disney, which portrayed Coleen Rooney's high-profile legal battle. Furthermore, this company was behind the 2022 feature-length documentary 'Rooney', which explored the life of the former England captain. The involvement of Lorton Entertainment suggests a commitment to high-quality storytelling, with expectations that this new documentary will follow suit. With production already underway, anticipation is building around this project. It is reportedly structured to highlight the dual aspects of Rooney’s life—his role as a football manager and his responsibilities as a family man. According to insiders, the documentary will reveal how these two spheres of his life intersect. By portraying Wayne Rooney in a relatable light, the documentary aims to resonate with audiences, inviting them into the daily realities of his experiences in management while simultaneously offering a glimpse into his family dynamics. Rooney, who took the managerial reigns at Plymouth Argyle in May, has clarified that while the film crew will capture events during his tenure, it will not disrupt the routine operations of the club. He has emphasized that filming will occur only on designated days, ensuring that team dynamics are not adversely affected. This public commitment also reflects Rooney's desire to maintain a professional atmosphere within the club. The opportunity for both Rooney and Plymouth Argyle to earn substantial financial benefits through partnerships with these major streaming services adds an intriguing layer to this endeavor, potentially enhancing the club's visibility and prestige in the sport's media landscape.