Michael Sam, Oprah Documentary Postponed: OWN, Rams Put TV Show On Hold

OWN, the television network owned by Oprah Winfrey, has decided to postpone its reality show about St. Louis Rams defensive end Michael Sam. OWN and Michael Sam's agent, Cameron Weiss, announced the decision on Friday.

Sam, a seventh-round draft pick, reportedly raised some eyebrows in the NFL with his decision to a documentary crew film him for a new TV series on OWN. On Friday OWN and Weiss released a statement that said the series would be postponed to allow Sam to focus on making the team.

"After careful consideration and discussion with the St. Louis Rams, 'The Untitled Michael Sam Project' has been postponed, allowing Michael the best opportunity to achieve his dreams of making the team," OWN president Erik Logan said in a statement, via ESPN. "OWN is about elevating and empowering people to achieve their best. It's clear that we, along with the world, recognize the opportunity that Michael has in this moment. We will continue to support him in his journey to earn a spot playing for the Rams."

Weiss also commented in the statement.

"After today's meeting with the Rams, we felt it is best to postpone the project," Weiss said. "This will allow for Michael to have total focus on football, and will ensure no distractions to his teammates. Everybody involved remains committed to this project and understands its historical importance as well as its positive message."

Neither the NFL nor the Rams were aware of the proposed television show until after it was announced, according to ESPN.

Sam made history by being the first openly gay NFL athlete drafted. If he makes the Rams' 53-man roster, he would become the first openly gay NFL athlete actively playing.

Real Time Analytics