HBO has acquired the rights to the documentary, “At the Heart of Gold: Inside the USA Gymnastics Scandal.” The documentary features exclusive interviews and rare footage to reveal the dangerous system that enabled predators like Larry Nassar to abuse hundreds of athletes for decades. Directed by Erin Lee Carr, the film puts the survivors’ stories at the forefront, following their fight for justice against powerful institutions that silenced the victims and prioritized winning over athlete safety.
This film comes after years of research by producers David Ulich and Dr. Steven Ungerleider of Sidewinder Films, the media division of The Foundation for Global Sports Development (GSD). In the process of their extensive research, Ulich and Ungerleider uncovered significant gaps in abuse prevention, which have laid the groundwork for the sex abuse crisis in elite sport.
In April of 2018, GSD recognized survivors of abuse in sport, including the Sister Survivors from the Nassar abuse scandal, for their courageous efforts to bring light to this largely uncovered topic. GSD presented the 2018 Humanitarian Award to the survivors at a ceremony in Los Angeles. Over 20 women who had experienced abuse as athletes attended to receive the award.
Actress and activist Kristen Bell spoke at the ceremony, applauding the survivors for taking the drastic steps necessary to change the culture of abuse. Bell also revealed GSD’s plans to launch a nationwide educational platform, designed to teach youth and adults alike how to prevent, recognize, and respond to abuse in sport.
With the film “At the Heart of Gold: Inside the USA Gymnastics Scandal,” Sidewinder Films and The Foundation for Global Sports Development hope to go beyond headlines to inform the nation of this scandal, how it came to be, and its effect on those who have been abused and silenced. GSD and the abuse survivors hope to combine the tools of awareness and education to end the destructive culture of abuse.
Also involved in the creation of the documentary are Michael Cascio, Sarah Gibson, and Gerald Molen as Executive Producers. Proceeds from the sale of “At the Heart of Gold” will benefit the abuse prevention program supported by The Foundation for Global Sports Development.
About Global Sports Development
Working closely with international sports federations, generous donors and committed athletes, The Foundation for Global Sports Development promotes sportsmanship, education, fair play and ethics among the world’s youth. The Foundation gives special emphasis to groups and communities that are most in need or most underserved by current programs, including women, minorities and youth in areas where the risk of delinquency is particularly high. Visit www.globalsportsdevelopment.org to learn more.
About Sidewinder Films
The Foundation for Global Sports Development founded Sidewinder Films, a 501(c)3 film production company, to use the medium of film to convey its mission to a broader audience. Sidewinder Films seeks educate the public regarding important social issues through films which touch lives, tell remarkable stories, and create a lasting impact. Sidewinder Films offers a creative avenue to provide educational programs through film. Visit www.sidewinderfilms.org to learn more.
