ESPN To Delay Airing Film About Kings After Criminal Allegations Against Mayor Johnson Resurface
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - ESPN has announced it will delay the release of a documentary film about the Kings after nearly decades-old allegations of sexual abuse by Mayor Kevin Johnson recently resurfaced.
The "30 For 30" film titled "Down in the Valley", which is about the fight to keep the Kings in Sacramento, had been scheduled to air on ESPN on October 20.
Shortly after news of delay broke, ESPN issued a statement saying, in part: "…The film was initially completed in the spring for a film festival premiere, but in light of the recent renewed focus on past allegations against one of its key characters - Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson - we have decided to postpone the ESPN premiere as we, along with director Jason Hehir, re-examine the presentation and content."
Despite the announcement, the Kings will move forward tonight with the premiere at the Crest Theater in Downtown Sacramento.
In reaction to ESPN's decision, Mayor Johnson's office issued a statement calling the postponement unfortunate.
"'Down in the Valley' tells the true Sacramento success story, highlighting the benefits of an entire community working together to achieve the collective goal. While it's unfortunate that the air date has been postponed, we're looking forward to tonight's premiere and for the rest of the country to learn more about our Sacramento pride."
Tonight's premiere is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
ESPN has not said when it plans to air the film.