Lockdowns boosted Michael Jordan's documentary's viewership.

When “The Last Dance” premiered, it did more than just celebrate Michael Jordan’s illustrious career, it became a global phenomenon. The first episodes secured ESPN’s two most-viewed original broadcasts since 2004, captivating audiences worldwide.

But would the documentary have achieved such astronomical success without the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic? According to the series’ director, Jason Hehir, the timing was everything.

During a recent appearance on “Pablo Torre Finds Out,” Hehir reflected on the series’ success. “I still think that when it came out was probably the most generous, forgiving moment culturally of my lifetime. And that people were so grateful for anything new,” Hehir explained.

Indeed, the pandemic played a pivotal role in the docuseries’ reception. Originally scheduled for release in June 2020, “The Last Dance” was moved up to April due to a lack of live sports content. With the NBA season suspended in March, sports fans were starved for content, and the documentary filled that void perfectly.

An audience starving for sports


The timing couldn’t have been better. As people were confined to their homes, “The Last Dance” became a binge-watching sensation. It was a rare moment where a non-live sports event captivated the world, underscoring its lasting impact.

Fans and the broader basketball community devoured the series, which showcased the Chicago Bulls former star’s trash-talking, competitive spirit, and unparalleled prowess on the court.

However, Hehir pondered how different the reception might have been under normal circumstances. He speculated that the series might have faced more scrutiny and criticism if it had been released while LeBron James was actively playing.

The ongoing debate over who is the greatest of all time-Jordan or James-could have overshadowed the documentary’s focus on Jordan’s career. “I think there would have been a lot more vitriol, there would have been a lot more criticism, and people would have been a lot more scrutinizing of a lot of the stuff,” Hehir noted.

The “King” was benched for once
The absence of LeBron James in the series was a deliberate choice. “Once you open that door, then you have to have that discussion. And I was never interested in having that discussion,”Hehir stated. He believed he could predict James’ responses, and felt that including him wouldn’t add significant value to the narrative.

However, producer Andy Thompson reportedly reached out to James, sparking speculation about a potential docuseries on LeBron’s journey. Could a future project featuring both Jordan and James replicate the success of “The Last Dance”?

For now, “The Last Dance” remains a testament to Michael Jordan’s legacy, amplified by the unique circumstances of its release. The documentary not only entertained but also offered a sense of nostalgia and unity during an unprecedented time, cementing its place in sports history.