A powerful Washington, DC story is reaching audiences worldwide as They Fight premieres on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ beginning July 17. Inspired by the acclaimed 2018 documentary, the feature film brings global attention to the life and legacy of Ward 8 youth boxing coach Walt Manigan, a mentor whose impact continues to shape the District’s boxing community and the young people he guided.
The film from Andscape, ESPN's content studio behind culturally driven storytelling through the lens of sport and Black identity, highlights the strength, determination, and mentoring spirit found within Southeast DC neighborhoods, where Walt’s after‑school boxing program supported young people for years. While rooted deeply in the District, the film’s themes of redemption, community, and second chances resonate with viewers everywhere.
To mark the release of They Fight on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+, the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), Events DC, and Andscape celebrate a story that honors the mentors, families, and neighborhoods who guide and uplift youth across the District every day.
“Washington is full of extraordinary people whose stories deserve to be told,” said LaToya Foster, DC Film Commissioner and Director of OCTFME. “They Fight shows how mentorship can transform lives and reminds us that many of the most meaningful stories begin in our neighborhoods — including right here in Ward 8.”
Boxing gyms have long been anchors of discipline, hope, and opportunity within the District’s Black community. Walt Manigan’s Lyfe Style Boxing program was part of that tradition, shaping young athletes and strengthening a legacy of mentorship and resilience that continues to influence the sport in Washington, DC today.
“One of the things we've always believed at Andscape is that the more culturally specific a story is, the more universal it can become.” said Jason Aidoo, VP and General Manager of Andscape. “They Fight is deeply rooted in Southeast DC, yet its themes of mentorship, resilience and second chances speak to communities everywhere.”
Directed by Sheldon Candis, the film stars André Holland (Moonlight, Selma, 42) as Walt, bringing depth and authenticity to the story of a coach whose legacy continues to resonate across the District. Wendell Pierce (The Wire, Jack Ryan) appears as Slim, Walt’s mentor, whose guidance shapes the film’s themes of redemption and resilience.
Washington, DC native and Primetime Emmy Award–winner Samira Wiley portrays Ketta, Walt’s partner. Wiley, widely known for Orange Is the New Black and The Handmaid’s Tale, is also a graduate of the District’s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. The ensemble cast includes Anthony B. Jenkins, Toussaint Francois Battiste, and Mykelti Williamson.
Filmed across locations in Washington DC, and Maryland, the production captured key scenes throughout Ward 8, neighborhood gyms, and local landmarks, to authentically reflect the community at the heart of They Fight.
“Washington DC’s greatest strength is its people, and They Fight brings that narrative to life with incredible authenticity,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “By highlighting the neighborhoods and voices that define us, They Fight offers a profound look at the District’s unique culture. We are proud to help share this vital story with the world.”
Together, OCTFME, Events DC and Andscape proudly celebrate They Fight as a powerful example of authentic storytelling — one that shines a light on Washington, DC's communities while reminding audiences everywhere of the transformative power of mentorship, resilience and hope.
They Fight premieres on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+, Friday, July 17th.
