Wendell Pierce on ‘They Fight’ and His Favorite NFL Team

The Influence of a Mentor

This week, Ed Easton Jr. from Chiefs Wire had the opportunity to speak with award-winning actor Wendell Pierce. During their conversation, Pierce shared insights about his latest film, “They Fight,” which is set to premiere on Hulu on July 17. The movie, based on a 2018 documentary of the same name, follows Walt Manigan, a reformed ex-con who seeks to reintegrate into society to be with the mother of his toddler son. As he struggles to find his footing, he finds an unexpected opportunity at a local D.C. youth boxing gym, where he coaches a group of teenage boys, leading up to a national championship.

Pierce also spoke about the inspiration behind his character, Slim, and how it was influenced by his own experiences growing up in New Orleans. He highlighted the impact of Coach Mac, a legendary youth football coach for the Pontchartrain Park Patriots in New Orleans. Coach Mac mentored generations of children, emphasizing the importance of academics, teamwork, and character.

“Coach Mac (McBurnett Knox Jr.) from Pontchartrain Park in New Orleans—my neighborhood; I still live there—and he’s gone now. We’ve named the playground after him. We knew when we were under his tutelage, that he was preparing us for life, not just a particular game or season or championship, he was preparing us for life,” said Pierce. “We always knew that when we got out of practice, we were going to become the men that he hoped and was leading us to become, and no matter what field of endeavor we were going to be, that he was preparing us for that.”

During games, Coach Mac would call timeouts to remind the players of their values. “He would tell us in the middle of games, call a timeout, and say, ‘What are you doing? What kind of men are you going to be? Is that—are you going to— is this what you’re going to do with your life? Are you just going to give up? You’re not going to meet the challenge, and we’re sitting there going, coaches, it’s third and two, what’s the play?” said Pierce. “But he was teaching us for life, and so I was thinking of him the entire time I was doing this, and what a tribute he is to everybody who came under his tutelage.”

A Lifelong Fan of the Saints

Pierce, a native of New Orleans, has publicly supported the Kansas City Chiefs but is a lifelong fan of the New Orleans Saints. Despite the team’s rebuilding phase following the Drew Brees era, Pierce remains optimistic about the future.

“Optimism because of the unknown, right? The unknown. We now have a team of young talent who get to tell us how much it means to them, right? Here’s a classic example of exercising your right of self-determination,” said Pierce. “So, who are you? What kind of player are you going to be? What kind of team are you going to put together? And so that’s what I’m looking forward to. I’m looking forward to the New Orleans Saints, who said, I’m going to put my mark on this team. This is a new team; the (Drew) Brees years are over. It’s my time, right here, right now; I’m gonna mark my passing on the road. The New Orleans Saints are here, and I’m waiting for those young men to step up and declare themselves.”

A Story of Redemption and Hope

“They Fight” premiered at the Tribeca Festival and will be released on Hulu on July 17. The film explores themes of redemption, hope, and the power of mentorship. Through the story of Walt Manigan, the movie highlights the challenges of reintegrating into society and the importance of community support.

Pierce’s portrayal of Slim adds depth to the narrative, reflecting the values instilled in him by Coach Mac. The film serves as both a tribute to those who have shaped his life and a reminder of the lasting impact of strong leadership and guidance.

As the release date approaches, fans and critics alike are eager to see how “They Fight” will resonate with audiences. With its compelling story and powerful performances, the film promises to be a meaningful addition to the world of cinema.