British football icon Ian Wright’s life story is set to be told in an official biopic that will be co-produced by Stormzy’s #Merky Films and executive-produced by the UK rapper.
Wright enjoyed a remarkable rise from amateur football to England, Arsenal and Crystal Palace legend status. Only Thierry Henry has scored more goals for the Gunners, while Wright was named the Eagles’ player of the century.
Since hanging up his boots, the 62-year-old has become a revered broadcaster and one of the few figures in football who is universally loved. Now his story is set to be told on the big screen.
#Merky Films have confirmed their plan for the official biopic, which has been written and will be directed by Tom Wilton (Muscle, Bump, A Love Letter to M).
The synopsis reads: “Ian’s journey begins on the Honor Oak Estate in Brockley, south London, where football is the young boy’s only escape from his tough home life. Schoolteacher Sydney Pigden recognises Ian’s struggles and dares him to believe in who he could be.
“Despite this spark of hope, by his teens, Ian’s dreams of becoming a footballer are falling apart as rejection, oppression, and his own internal rage take their toll. By the time he is in his early twenties, Ian’s hope has faded, not least because he strives to be the parent he never had.
“But with his raw talent finally causing a stir, Ian faces a life-altering choice – risk the only security he has ever known, or take one last shot at the big time.”
Wright said: “Telling my story in full for the first time feels surreal and, in some ways, a long time coming. 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.
“My story is one that truly shows how the company you keep can break you down and build you up. There are hard-hitting moments but in the end I want it to give people hope and joy.”
Stormzy is part of the producing team, which also includes Academy Award-nominated producer Sara McFarlane (A Love Letter to M, Red White and Blue, Love Brooklyn) for Essential Viewing, Stephen Tottingham for Serpentine Creative, and Akua Agyemfra for #Merky Films.
“It’s a real honour for #Merky Films to be co-producing Ian Wright’s story,” said the UK rapper. “Wrighty’s journey goes far beyond football – 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.”
The film will be cast by Carolyn McLeod and Matt Sheppard (Boiling Point), while discussions are under way with studios and distributors.
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