Amazon doc on first gay rugby club
March 25, 2021
Steelers, a new documentary that follows the world’s first gay and inclusive rugby club, will premiere exclusively on Amazon Prime Video in the UK and Ireland on April 16th.
Steelers following the players and coach of the Kings Cross Steelers as they overcome personal struggles and compete against 60 other gay clubs in the Bingham Cup in Amsterdam – the World Cup of gay rugby.
“Steelers is a frank, honest and uplifting documentary that shows how a shared community can provide hope and a sense of belonging,” said Martin Backlund, Head of Content, UK Prime Video. “I know Prime members in the UK and Ireland will be inspired by the personal stories within and the important issues it tackles.”
Eammon Ashton-Atkinson, director of Steelers added: “This story isn’t just for rugby fans, or even gay people. It’s a story for anyone who has felt like they don’t belong or isn’t living the life they want to be living. I hope this film inspires people to try something they may have been afraid of giving a go before. The fact that Prime Video will beam this documentary into homes across the UK is incredible. If this helps one person who may be suffering with their mental health, or helps someone from the LGBTQ+ community feel like they belong, then making this film will have all been worth it.”
The documentary is the directorial debut for Australian journalist and former Steelers player Eammon Ashton-Atkinson, who also wrote, filmed, edited, and narrated the feature. Ashton-Atkinson produced the film with support from fellow Australian journalist Grace Tobin and Steelers player Jared Watmuff. Zak Brilliant of Republic Film Distribution serves as Executive Producer.