The well-publicized Michael Sam documentary series has been shelved, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and representatives of the first openly gay player drafted in the NFL announced on Friday night.
In a statement quoted by ESPN.com, OWN president Erik Logan said the decision was made by the network and the St. Louis Rams so that Sam will be given the best opportunity to make the team.
Logan added: "OWN is about elevating and empowering people to achieve their best. It's clear that we, along with the world, recognize the opportunity that Michael has in this moment. We will continue to support him in his journey to earn a spot playing for the Rams."
The media statement also mentioned a comment from Cameron Weiss, the agent of Sam, who had discussed the project with the Rams on Friday. Weiss said: "After today's meeting with the Rams, we felt it is best to postpone the project. This will allow for Michael to have total focus on football, and will ensure no distractions to his teammates. Everybody involved remains committed to this project and understands its historical importance as well as its positive message."
It was only on Wednesday that the network announced it was following Sam's journey to try make the Rams roster. The plan was to delve into the personal life of Sam as he attempts to make the Rams, according to sources close to ESPN with the series divided into six to eight segments.
The plan was met with criticisms from football observers, noting that the documentary was a complete turnaround to Sam's earlier pronouncements that he would focus on football and not on his sexuality.
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