Art Rooney II Signs $11.5 Million Netflix Deal for Pittsburgh Steelers Tribute Film
In a groundbreaking move that fuses the legacy of professional football with the power of cinematic storytelling, Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II has signed an $11.5 million deal with Netflix to produce a feature film centered around the iconic NFL franchise. But this isn’t just another sports documentary. What’s coming to screens is a full-blown tribute to the Pittsburgh Steelers—a football empire whose impact on the sport and American culture is nothing short of legendary.
For decades, the Steelers have stood as a beacon of excellence, grit, and unwavering loyalty. From the Steel Curtain defense of the 1970s to the dynamic teams of the 2000s, the Pittsburgh Steelers have become much more than just a football team. They are a symbol of resilience, tradition, and pride—not only for the city of Pittsburgh but for millions of fans around the globe.
A Cinematic Celebration of a Gridiron Dynasty
Netflix, known for its high-quality original programming, is diving deep into NFL history with this ambitious project. The film will not only highlight the franchise’s six Super Bowl championships and its rich history of Hall of Fame talent, but it will also explore the cultural and emotional ties that bind the Steelers to the working-class spirit of Pittsburgh.
“This is more than just a football story,” Art Rooney II said in a statement. “It’s a story about a city, a family, and a community that rose together and fought together. It’s about how the Steelers came to represent more than just wins and losses—they became a way of life.”
Though details about the cast and creative team remain under wraps, insiders suggest that the production will blend archival footage with cinematic re-enactments, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes narratives that have never before been shared publicly. The goal? To capture not just the plays and the trophies, but the heart of what makes the Steelers one of the most storied franchises in sports history.
The Rooney Legacy
The film will also take a closer look at the Rooney family, whose leadership and values have guided the franchise since its founding in 1933. Art Rooney Sr., known affectionately as “The Chief,” built the team from the ground up, enduring years of losing seasons before finally achieving glory in the 1970s. Under the guidance of his son Dan Rooney, and now his grandson Art Rooney II, the Steelers have maintained a consistent philosophy of stability, integrity, and community engagement.
The Rooney Rule, introduced by Dan Rooney during his time as chairman of the NFL’s diversity committee, changed the face of hiring practices across the league and remains one of the most influential policies in sports administration. It’s expected that the film will pay tribute to the family’s progressive impact on the NFL, both on and off the field.
A City and a Team—Forever Intertwined
Pittsburgh is not your typical NFL city. It’s a town forged in steel, rebuilt through innovation, and held together by blue-collar values. The Steelers have mirrored that journey, often representing the city’s struggles and triumphs on the national stage. From the Immaculate Reception in 1972 to their dominant run through the 2000s under coaches like Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin, the team’s success has always resonated with its deeply loyal fan base.
The Netflix film will no doubt shine a spotlight on the “Steeler Nation,” a global community of fans known for their black-and-gold devotion. From tailgate rituals at Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium) to Terrible Towels waved in stadiums across the country, the film aims to celebrate the unique relationship between the fans and their beloved team.
Looking Ahead
With production slated to begin later this year, anticipation is already building. Football fans, historians, and general audiences alike are eager to witness the story of a dynasty that has done more than win games—it has built a legacy. Netflix’s investment signals confidence in the global appeal