discovery+ UK Orders Maradona Special

Discovery UK has commissioned ITN Productions to produce the fast-turnaround documentary What Killed Maradona?

The one-hour special plots Maradona’s life, football career and difficult relationship with drugs—both prescribed and recreational. It is slated to launch exclusively on discovery+ UK on December 28.

Maradona’s cause of death was said to be a heart attack, but What Killed Maradona? seeks to answer what really led to the famed footballer’s death. The documentary features key moments from his playing career and interviews with sports scientists, doctors and people who knew and loved him, taking a close look at the variety of drugs that fuelled his lifestyle and the impact they had on his body and his personal life.

Simon Downing, head of factual and sports for Discovery UK, said: “We are pleased to partner with ITN Productions on a timely documentary about this legendary football player. Maradona was an icon that many looked up to, but his life was closely scrutinized by the international media who often looked at his vices off the pitch. This exclusive discovery+ documentary goes beyond the headlines to delve into the many aspects of his life that shaped his legacy.”

Sarah-Jane Cohen, ITN Productions executive producer, said: “This documentary gives a unique view of Maradona’s life and his passing, talking to people who knew, loved and worked with him, and scientists who see the seeds of his demise sewn from the first moments of his success as a child prodigy.”