Travon Free and Martin Desmond Roe Directing ‘Sk8 or Die: The Lee Ralph Story’ (EXCLUSIVE)

As a seasoned cinephile with a penchant for unconventional narratives and a soft spot for tales that delve deep into the human spirit, this upcoming series titled “Sk8 or Die: The Lee Ralph Story” has piqued my interest like none other. With an Oscar-winning duo at the helm, the star-studded cast, and a production team boasting skateboarding legends and comedic icons, it’s shaping up to be a wild ride that I can’t wait to strap myself into.


The award-winning team Travon Free and Martin Desmond Roe, known for “Two Distant Strangers” on HBO’s “BS High,” will be in charge of directing and producing the upcoming series titled “Sk8 or Die: The Lee Ralph Story.” This anticipated show is an anthology delving into the extraordinary and singularly eccentric life of Lee Ralph, a one-time professional skateboarder turned folk legend and recluse.

In the upcoming film “Fast & Furious 9: The Fast Saga,” Vinnie Bennett will take on the role of Ralph, while Keisha Castle-Hughes has been cast as his sister and accomplice, Kim Ralph. Both actors have impressive resumes, with Bennett appearing in films such as “Whina” and “Human Traces,” and Castle-Hughes being an Oscar nominee known for her work on “FBI: Most Wanted,” “Whale Rider,” and “Game of Thrones.

The six-part series was conceived by the New Zealand production company Tavake (“Madam”). Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and comedian Steve-O, known for his “Jackass” tours and skate culture, are set to serve as executive producers. Free and Roe will executive produce under their The Unreasnble label.

Principals Tom Hern (“The Dark Horse,” “Shadow in the Cloud,” “The Panthers”) and Halaifonua (Nua) Finau (“The Panthers,” “Red White and Brass”) collaborated on writing the series and will take on the roles of showrunners. Additionally, Tom Hern is set to direct some episodes. Julian Arahanga will fulfill the role of producer for this project by Tavake.

The initial season, consisting of six episodes, is presently being thoroughly developed. Each subsequent season will delve into the life story of a unique character from the skateboarding community.

The initial series will encompass Ralph’s vibrant childhood memories in New Zealand, during which he admired his father who dealt heroin. It will also showcase his journey to becoming a professional skater for Vision in the late 1980s, where he frequently skated without shoes, and detail events that unfolded after he mysteriously left the sport, just as he was reaching the pinnacle of success.

The series titled “Tavake” has been approved for production by Sky New Zealand Originals in New Zealand. The creator, Hern, is actively searching for international co-production and financial partners to move forward with the project. Hern, a friend of Lee’s for almost 20 years, expressed his admiration for Lee, saying, “I’ve always been aware of Lee’s skating accomplishments and legendary antics, but it was only during our research for this project that Nua and I discovered all the other extraordinary facets of his story.” Hern further added, “The life journey of Lee and his family is filled with unexpected twists reminiscent of ‘Forrest Gump’, yet it’s also deeply moving and inspiring.

The Unreasnable duo expressed their fascination with Lee’s narrative, as it delves profoundly into themes of love and redemption in an energetic, unconventional manner. We found ourselves unable to stop discussing it and delving deeper into the intriguing life of Lee. The story offers much to absorb, appreciate, and ponder upon,” said the Unreasnable duo.

Tavake’s 10-part comedy-drama about sex work, titled “Madam,” featuring Rachel Griffiths and Martin Henderson, has been recognized as the ‘best creation’ at The Golden Nymph Awards held at the Monte-Carlo TV Festival. This series is currently being distributed worldwide by Fifth Season.

Comedian, author, and podcast host Steve-O has wrapped up his successful “The Bucket List” tour and, starting October 4th, he’s ready to kick off a new one titled “The Super Dummy Tour.

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2024-09-20 02:46