ESPNU will air the first episode of a four-part series titled BEING Bret Bielema this Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 9 p.m. ET. Part reality television, part documentary, the series captures unprecedented behind-the-scenes access of the Arkansas head football coach.
Co-producers JM Associates and local Arkansas sports personality Bo Mattingly use rare footage to provide an inside look at what life is like as a SEC football coach. The show also explores where Bielema grew up and his life at home. Former players discuss how Bielema changed their lives.
– Bo Mattingly, co-producer of BEING Bret Bielema
“The No. 1 distinguishing factor is Bielema’s personality — he’s entertaining and genuine, which makes for great television,” said Mattingly. “You’ll see him in ways he’s never been seen before — in his kitchen, taking out the trash, shopping for groceries and pumping gas. This is the first-of-its-kind, in terms of getting access to a SEC football coach, and people will feel like they’re hanging out with him when they watch.”
Fans will see everything from Bielema cooking multi-course meals for coaches and wives to fishing in the Spring River. They’ll hear from his family and friends, as well as several ESPN personalities, including Rece Davis, Joe Tessitore and Paul Finebaum.
Filming began at the 2015 SEC Championship game in Atlanta and continued through this year’s SEC Football Media Day, including Bielema’s recent visit to ESPN’s Bristol, Conn., campus.
Mattingly added, “Fans will not only see how much fun Bret has in life but also what a powerful life coach he is to his players.”
The four-part series will continue each Wednesday through Aug. 31 on ESPNU. Arkansas begins its season Saturday, Sept. 3, against Louisiana Tech.
