USA, NFL Set `Characters Unite' Documentary

USA Network will once again team up with the National Football League to create a documentary tied to the network’s Characters Unite pro-social initiative.

The 4th annual NFL Characters Unite documentary will premiere Feb 6 and will profile NFL stars how have faced difficult life challenges. The doc will feature Kansas City running back Jamaal Charles, Philadelphia Eagles running back Darren Sproles, Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams and Seatte Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman and coach Pete Carroll.

Each player mentors a young person in his community who is currently struggling to fit in, dealing with bullying and/or overcoming adversity by sharing their stories and engaging in confidence-building activities coordinated through local YMCAs, according to the network.

“It’s a privilege to share the courageous and inspiring stories of young people and NFL stars,” said Toby Graff, USA’s senior vice president, public affairs. “We are proud to work with the Y and the NFL to create this film that serves as the centerpiece of our 2014 Characters Unite Month, and can help raise awareness of bullying and change lives.” 

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.