New England Patriots’ tight end Benjamin Watson announced he is producing a pro-life documentary. Watson is a Christian, pro-life father of seven and told the Hollywood Reporter he aims to unveil the truth about abortion.
“Things are at a fever pitch. My goal is to unveil the truth about abortion, the laws, the history and where our country is headed. I believe in the sanctity of life, be it in the womb or on your deathbed. That’s my conviction,” Watson said.
Watson’s film, “Divided Hearts of America,” features multiple perspectives on the controversial issue of abortion. Watson interviews about 30 Americans, some pro-life, some pro-choice. The film also features Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s niece Alveda King.
“I’ll engage those who disagree and hear their reasoning. The number one thing I’m looking for is empathy on both sides,” Watson told the Hollywood Reporter.
Watson’s approach to his documentary is no surprise. In May, Watson got into an abortion dispute with pro-choice advocate and actress Alyssa Milano. He began filming shortly after.
“I never thought I’d be involved in a movie, but so many different laws have passed in New York, Alabama, Georgia, it seems this issue — which has always been a part of our national consciousness — has ramped up recently,” Watson said.
His disagreement with Milano also reminded Watson that Hollywood actors must conform to the pro-choice narrative pushed by Hollywood elites.
“Dissenting views should be respected and in fact encouraged. There are many people in Hollywood who would consider themselves pro-life but they feel as though their viewpoint is unacceptable in the industry. No one should feel like their job is in danger because of their convictions on this issue,” Watson said.
The documentary’s budget is less than $1 million. It was financed by some donors and the One More Foundation, a Christian charity Watson and his wife run, which focuses on hunger, poverty, prison reform, and other social issues.
After 15 years of playing in the NFL, Watson confirmed he will retire when his contract with the Patriots expires at the beginning of February.