A planned ESPN2 premiere didn't go as expected.
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Director Frank Marshall revealed Sunday that his documentary Rachel, Breathe was pulled from the network just before it was scheduled to air, citing a last-minute disagreement over rights.
"I'm sad to report that RACHEL, BREATHE, will not premiere on ESPN2 today," Marshall posted on X on Sunday. "After several days of negotiations that should have been very simple and were not about money, but rights, the ESPN lawyers stopped talking to us an hour before broadcast and said, 'sign it now or we are pulling the show'.
"I'm extremely disappointed for Rachel and John and entire team that spent 2 years making this film about hope, love and friendship. We remain genuinely excited for the day this documentary reaches the world, it is simply not tonight. And just like Rachel, we remain resilient and the moment I know where and when the premiere is, you will hear from me."
According to Marshall, the issue was not about money, but about rights tied to the project. He said discussions had been ongoing for days before communication suddenly stopped, with the network presenting a final agreement shortly before airtime.
Sources told The Hollywood Reporter that a licensing deal had not been finalized in time. Additional terms were introduced late in the process, leaving both sides without enough time to review and sign before the scheduled premiere.
I'm sad to report that RACHEL, BREATHE, will not premiere on ESPN2 today. After several days of negotiations that should have been very simple and were not about money, but rights, the ESPN lawyers stopped talking to us an hour before broadcast and said, "sign it now or we are…
— Frank Marshall (@LeDoctor) April 20, 2026
The documentary tells the story of Rachel Foster, who completed the Boston Marathon just months after emerging from a coma. The film follows her continued journey as she prepares to run the race again, focusing on resilience, recovery and identity.
Marshall said he remains hopeful the film will find a new platform soon.
