In the gripping and heart-wrenching finale of Season 1 of "American Sports Story," titled "Who Killed Aaron Hernandez?", the series plunges into the final, sorrowful chapters of Aaron Hernandez's tragic tale, offering a multifaceted and intricate portrayal of the former NFL star's life and the chain of events that led to his premature demise. This episode skillfully navigates the murky depths of Hernandez's intertwined personal and professional existence, crafting a compelling narrative that leaves viewers with a poignant understanding of the immense human cost of fame and the shadowy underbelly of sports.
The episode's title poses a haunting question that has lingered in the public consciousness since Hernandez's passing: "Who Killed Aaron Hernandez?" Rather than offering a straightforward answer, the show's creators wisely resist simplification, choosing instead to delve into the myriad, intricate factors that collectively contributed to his tragic end. From the physical wear and tear of football to the devastating psychological impact of CTE, the episode interlaces a tapestry of contributing factors that weave a bleak, poignant picture of Hernandez's final days.
Central to this episode is the revelatory discovery of Hernandez's Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a condition that has become synonymous with the devastating long-term effects of head trauma among football players. The opening scene is particularly moving, as researchers from Boston University uncover the extent of the devastating damage to Hernandez's brain. The subsequent press conference by the experts lays bare the severity of the frontal lobe damage, which likely compromised Hernandez's decision-making abilities and impulse control, hinting at a bleak future of total impairment within a decade without intervention.
The episode also delves into the profound struggle of Hernandez's family in the aftermath of his death and the agonizing decision to allow his brain to be examined. The raw, emotional arguments between D.J., Terri, and Shayanna are fraught with intense emotion, as each family member grapples with the desperate need for answers and the trepidation of what those answers might reveal. The show unflinchingly portrays the raw pain and confusion that such a profound decision entails.
A substantial portion of the episode is dedicated to Hernandez's second murder trial, where his legal team, led by the charismatic Jose Baez, engages in a fierce legal battle against a prosecution that cunningly attempts to exploit Hernandez's sexuality as a motive for murder. The show handles this sensitive and controversial topic with utmost care, using the character of George Leontire to challenge the prosecution's tactics and to provide a voice of reason amidst the swirling chaos.
The episode imparts a poignant message: while Hernandez's suicide cannot solely be blamed on homophobic bullying, this pervasive issue undeniably played a pivotal role in driving him to his tragic end. The narrative vividly depicts Hernandez seeking solace in religion and hallucinating his father, serving as a heart-wrenching mirror to his internal strife and his desperate longing for acceptance and affection. "Who Killed Aaron Hernandez?" concludes on a melancholic note, reflecting on the lives shattered by Hernandez's actions and demise.
The closing scenes, portraying Shayanna watching young boys playing football, serve as a haunting reminder of the perilous path that those who emulate Hernandez might tread. This episode leaves viewers with a profound understanding of the intricate dance of factors that can culminate in tragedy, ranging from the inherent physical risks of the sport to the enduring psychological scars that linger deep within.
In summation, Season 1 Episode 10 of "American Sports Story" offers a potent and thought-provoking glimpse into the life and untimely death of Aaron Hernandez. It's a tale that defies simple explanations, opting instead for a nuanced exploration of a life abruptly terminated by a concatenation of forces. This episode stands as a testament to the show's prowess in addressing complex subjects with sensitivity and depth, making it a fitting and impactful climax to a season that has been both engrossing and challenging.
