Logo

ESPN Original Movie to Debut on ABC

Jan 12, 2006  •  Post A Comment

ESPN’s next original movie will premiere on ABC. The sports network has greenlighted production on “Ruffian,” based on the true story of a racehorse.

The movie will debut in conjunction with ABC’s presentation of the Belmont Stakes in June 2007. ABC is owned by ESPN parent The Walt Disney Co. ESPN made the announcement Thursday during the Television Critics Association’s Winter Press Tour in Los Angeles.

“ESPN came to us with a great idea for a movie and a unique concept for its airing, which we thought made a lot of sense for both of us,” said Stephen McPherson, president of ABC Entertainment.

Within four days of its ABC premiere, “Ruffian” will air on ESPN, ESPN’s broadband channel ESPN360 and ESPN HD. It will be available on ESPN On Demand and will be released on DVD.

“This project will continue our strategy to make content available to consumers across multiple platforms and serve fans with superior original programming,” said John Skipper, ESPN executive VP of content.