Robin Roberts Reveals Absence from ‘Breaking Glass: The Pat Summitt Story’
Robin Roberts executive produced a new documentary about Pat Summitt that premieres on ESPN Sunday. The film chronicles the life and career of the former Tennessee Lady Volunteers coach.
Roberts appears only in archival clips and photographs. She chose not to serve as a primary narrator.
Why Roberts stepped back
Robin Roberts reveals absence was deliberate. She said the project needed to center Pat Summitt.
Roberts cited her close friendship with Summitt. Still, she felt the documentary should prioritize the coach’s own voice.
Director and source material
Director Dawn Porter led the film’s storytelling approach. The documentary focuses on people Summitt impacted.
Sally Jenkins supplied recorded interviews. Jenkins had previously interviewed Summitt for the book Sum It Up: A Thousand and Ninety-Eight Victories, a Couple of Irrelevant Losses, and a Life in Perspective.
Archival audio and emotional resonance
The production restored Pat Summitt’s voice from archival material. Roberts said hearing those recordings gave her chills during editing.
The team intentionally avoided overshadowing Summitt. They prioritized contemporary testimony and the coach’s own remarks.
Where to watch
The Pat Summitt documentary streams on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+. It also debuts on ESPN.
Disney is the parent company of ABC News, Hulu and ESPN. Coverage of the project is available via Filmogaz.com.
