In addition to broadcasting its latest “30 For 30” documentary this past Saturday (Dec. 12), ESPN also debuted the trailer for the next film in the award-winning series. Up next for “30 For 30” will be the 1985 Chicago Bears, premiering nearly 30 years to the day of their Super Bowl victory.
Here is the trailer that ran during Saturday night’s showing of The Four Falls of Buffalo:
The 1985 Bears were one of the best teams in NFL history, featuring perhaps the game’s finest defense, going 15-1 during the regular season on its way to winning Super Bowl XX with a resounding 46-10 victory over the New England Patriots in New Orleans.
That particular collection of players became a cultural phenomenon 30 years ago, perhaps the best-known example of a team that transcended sports and penetrated awareness among the general populace. Perhaps the most infamous example of the team’s fame is the music video recorded before the Super Bowl, the “Super Bowl Shuffle.”
Defensive tackle William “The Refrigerator” Perry, quarterback Jim McMahon and, of course, coach Mike Ditka were not just football figures; they were characters known throughout the culture, taking on celebrity status. Naturally, those personalities are featured in the trailer, along with linebacker Mike Singletary — the leader of that ferocious defense — defensive tackle Steve McMichael, safety Gary Fencik and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan.
The team also has elements of tragedy that have unfolded during the past 30 years. McMahon has battled depression and dementia as the result of concussions suffered during his playing career. Safety Dave Duerson committed suicide in 2011 and an autopsy on his brain discovered that he suffered from CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy), a degenerative brain disease resulting from repeated head trauma.
The ’85 Bears will premiere on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN, roughly one week before Super Bowl 50.
[ESPN]
