1/5
NEW YORK, July 9 (UPI) — Ernie Hudson, renowned for his roles in “Ghostbusters,” “Oz,” and “Quantum Leap,” conveys his desire for the audience to embrace diversity and openness in his latest film, “Champions.”
Directed by Bobby Farrelly, the movie is now available on DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming on Peacock.
Hudson portrays Phil, the head coach of a minor-league basketball team who remains supportive of his friend Marcus (Woody Harrelson), even after Marcus is fired and subsequently mandated by the court to manage the Friends team, a group of young adults with intellectual disabilities, following a drunk driving arrest.
Joining them is Kaitlin Olson as Alex, a Shakespearean actress dedicated to her younger brother Johnny (Kevin Iannucci), one of the players who is more independent than Alex realizes.
“Champions” serves as a reminder to accept those who are different from us and to acknowledge and nurture our unique talents, as emphasized by Hudson in a recent interview.
The 77-year-old actor also highlights the theme of forgiveness through Phil’s compassionate treatment of Marcus, despite their rocky history.
Through working with the Friends players, Marcus begins to shift his focus from himself to others and reevaluates his definition of success.
Hudson draws from personal experience, recounting the late-life realization of his own brother before his passing.
The film also emphasizes self-compassion and personal growth, encouraging individuals to forgive themselves and move forward.
“Champions” reunites Hudson and Harrelson, who previously collaborated on the 1994 comedy “The Cowboy Way.”
Hudson values their lasting friendship and admires Harrelson’s genuineness and authenticity in both his career and personal life.
Despite his age, Hudson remains active in the entertainment industry, with various film and TV projects. There are even rumors of his appearance in the upcoming “Ghostbusters” sequel.
For Hudson, the joy of the journey comes from the anticipation of what lies ahead, each project offering new experiences and opportunities with different people, roles, stories, and locations.
