Variety has learned that Facebook is in talks with soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo for a reality show centered around his life. There have been conflicting reports regarding how far along both sides are in the negotiation process with one side claiming that "a deal is close to being finalized" while another says that both parties have just come to the table.
In May, it was announced that Facebook Watch picked up a scripted series based on a diverse high school girls soccer team located in upstate New York that inspired their community to overcome the racial, ethnic, and class issues impacting them. The show is being produced by the studio, wiip, founded by Ronaldo with partner Paul Lee. "The story of my life has many similarities with the highs and lows the girls varsity soccer team will face in the series," Cristiano said. "While the series is set against the background of soccer, it goes much deeper than just the beautiful game. It’s about values, challenges, friendship, difficult times, hard work, solidarity, tensions, and harmony. In a word — it’s about life."
Given Cristiano’s worldwide appeal, Facebook is reportedly willing to offer somewhere in the ballpark of $10 million for a 13-episode order. At 33, Ronaldo is entering what could very well be the twilight of his career as he embarks on a rumored transfer to the Italian club Juventus. With so much going on in the life of CR7, people probably want a front row seat to see his every move, and Facebook appears to be banking on it.
