HBO Max to Debut ‘Eyes On the Prize’ Documentary Special

Eyes on the Prize: Hallowed Ground
(Image credit: HBO Max)

HBO Max will team with Anonymous Content’s AC Studios to develop several new projects around the 1980's PBS Civil Rights-themed documentary Eyes On The Prize, the streaming service said Monday.

HBO Max on Aug. 19 will premiere an original documentary special, Eyes On The Prize: Hallowed Ground, which will honor the original documentary special that debuted on PBS in 1987, said the service. The documentary will be directed by Sophia Nahli Allison and executive produced by Patrisse Cullors, Mervyn Marcano, Melina Matsoukas, Joy Gorman Wettels, Bedonna Smith, Judi Hampton, Sandra Forman and Sophia Nahli Allison.

The first episode of the 14-episode documentary -- which tells the landmark story of the movement that changed the fabric of American life -- is currently available for streaming on HBO Max.

In addition, HBO is also in production on a new documentary series reflecting on the legacy of the movement covered in the original Eyes on The Prize, and its ties to the present day as history in the making unfolds in front of the cameras and behind the scenes, said HBO Max.  

“We are very proud to be partnering with this dynamic team of activists and storytellers to bring this important work to our viewers,” said HBO and HBO Max chief content officer Casey Bloys in a statement. “Across HBO and HBO Max, we are committed to providing a platform for authentic voices representing diverse, essential stories. We are honored to collaborate with our incredibly talented producing team to bring the legacy of Henry Hampton’s groundbreaking work to a new generation.”

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.