JIM THORPE: LIT BY LIGHTNING is a documentary film that explores the legendary journey of Jim Thorpe, a Native American icon whose athletic prowess reshaped the landscape of 20th-century sports, defying the brutal challenges of racial prejudice along the way. The film, directed by Chris Eyre (who is Cheyenne and Arapaho) and executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, premiered July 7, 2025, on History Channel.

Based on extensive interviews and utilizing Thorpe’s own writing this documentary brings together a diverse array of Native American scholars, historians, athletes, and influential sports commentators. Thorpe’s unparalleled career, from leading the Carlisle Indian School’s football team to becoming a two-time Olympic gold medalist in 1912, a Hall of Fame NFL legend, and a Major League Baseball player, redefined the possibilities for athletes of all backgrounds. But his triumphs came at a cost, as he battled racism, had his Olympic gold medals stripped away, and faced the harsh realities of America’s unforgiving sports industry.

JIM THORPE: LIT BY LIGHTNING is produced for by UNINTERRUPTED in association with INE Entertainment, Five All in the Fifth, and Motion Entertainment, a WPP Media company. LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, and Philip Byron serve as executive producers for UNINTERRUPTED. Chris Eyre is executive producer and director. Mark Koops, Eric Day, and Douglas Banker are executive producers for INE Entertainment and Five All in the Fifth, respectively. Richard Foster and Chet Fenster serve as executive producers for Motion Entertainment, a WPP Media company. Eli Lehrer and Jim Pasquarella serve as executive producers for The HISTORY Channel. Courtney Whitaker and Matt Rissmiller serve as co-executive producers for UNINTERRUPTED.

‍

‍