All American: A Must See Series Based on a True Story

I have a new series you need to watch on Netflix called All American. Many of you may have seen it on the CW Network. Netflix is now carrying both seasons.  With the coronavirus pandemic, so many people are searching for new things to watch with all the extra time on their hands so here’s one for you to put on the list. I have to admit I was skeptical because ‘I judged the book by it’s cover’. When you see the cover photo and pics of different scenes, it’s easy to assume it’s a teen show. It’s full of pretty Beverly Hills people and high school kids. My daughter was on me for a while to watch it so I finally gave in. And guess what? I couldn’t stop watching. I binged. I couldn’t get enough.

First of all, I love any movie or show that is based on a true story. Loosely or not, I feel like having that real-life factor behind it always makes it more interesting. All American is inspired by the life of Spencer Paysinger, a professional football player. The series takes us through his childhood journey and all the challenges he faced before he got to where he is today. Of course, characters and certain scenes have been dramatized to be more current and relatable in present times but the core of the story is based on his life and all the adversities he faced.

Spencer Paysinger’s character in the series is Spencer James and is played by Daniel Ezra. Taye Diggs plays Coach Billy Baker who is a head coach for a rival high school and he recruits Spencer. Not only does the coach become a mentor on the field, but he also becomes a mentor off the field for Spencer. Throughout the series, Spencer goes back and forth between Beverly Hills and Crenshaw, his old neighborhood and where his family still lives, and deals with the challenges of splitting his heart between two completely different communities and lifestyles. Spencer’s mother is very relatable. Any mother will appreciate her role in this series. Netflix is now carrying both seasons.

It’s an action-packed series that has a little humor, crime, romance, and a lot of drama all mixed into one. It combines football and all of its seriousness with balancing real-life adversities. The actors are outstanding and it’s put together perfectly.

I can hardly wait for All American season 3 to be released. As of now, there is no release date. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, they still haven’t started filming. BUT, there WILL be a season 3. Both season 1 and 2 premiered in October, so maybe it will be around then for season 3.

A couple of fun facts:

• Daniel Ezra, the main actor, is actually British and has a very thick British accent. You would never know his American accent wasn’t authentic when you’re watching.
• A LOCAL TIE: One of the writers for the hit show “All American” is Jon Alson and he is from Louisiana.