‘Will & Harper’ Could Make Oscars History for LGBTQ Sports Fans

Sports and Friendship Shine in ‘Will & Harper’

The documentary film “Will & Harper” is making waves as it gains momentum in the awards circuit, particularly catching the attention of sports enthusiasts worldwide. Since its release on Netflix, the film has been celebrated not just for its storytelling but for how it intertwines sports with the personal journey of its protagonists.

The documentary chronicles a heartfelt road trip from New York City to California, featuring Hollywood comedy icon Will Ferrell and his friend Harper Steele, an Emmy Award-winning writer. This trip holds special significance for Steele as it marks her first cross-country adventure since embracing her true identity as a transgender woman.

A Potential Oscars Contender

“Will & Harper” has garnered significant buzz after being longlisted among 15 contenders for the Best Documentary Feature category at the upcoming Academy Awards. Enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the announcement on January 19, when the final nominations will be revealed.

Regardless of the outcome, the film has already sparked important conversations. It’s a must-watch for sports executives who are striving to create more inclusive environments for LGBTQ fans and athletes in stadiums and arenas.

Breaking Barriers in Sports

Within the film, viewers witness Harper Steele’s personal challenges as she navigates the sports world post-transition. A particularly poignant moment occurs courtside at an NBA game between the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers. Here, Steele is seen confronting her anxieties about attending her first sports event since her transition, while Ferrell introduces her to Indiana Governor Eric Holcombe.

Steele reflects on how she used sports to project a masculine image before her transition, noting, “Not that women can’t like sports, but I was trying to be ‘that guy’... by doing that all the time, I did learn a lot about sports and I do kind of like it.”

The reaction from the Governor is subdued when he learns about Steele’s identity, a moment that underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the trans community in sports spaces.

Inclusion and Progress

Despite these challenges, Steele finds affirmation during a visit to Chase Center when she is invited to speak at the Golden State Warriors’ “LGBTQ+ Night.” She shares her experiences on the LGBT FC podcast, expressing how significant it is to see symbols like the Progress Pride flag at sports events.

Steele suggests more organized events that explicitly welcome LGBTQ communities, praising the Warriors and the NBA for their efforts in fostering inclusivity.

Conversely, she expresses reluctance to attend NFL or college football games, citing the anxiety-inducing nature of male-dominated environments. However, she finds solace in inclusive teams like LAFC, highlighting how welcoming certain sports communities can be.

Building a Welcoming Sports Culture

Ferrell, who is also a co-owner of LAFC, emphasizes the importance of embedding diversity and inclusivity into the core values of sports teams. “From the LGBTQ standpoint, and the diverse ethnicity we have in the city, that was a part of the roadmap from the beginning,” he notes.

“Will & Harper” has the potential to inspire sports organizations to adopt more inclusive practices, urging teams like the only MLB franchise without a Pride Night to consider the impact of such events.

By showcasing the power of friendship, the documentary encourages viewers to empathize with the challenges faced by transgender individuals in sports, ultimately advocating for a future where everyone feels welcome.

“Will & Harper” is more than just a film; it’s a call to action for sports fans and executives alike to embrace inclusivity and celebrate diversity within the sports world.