Olympic track and field legend Carl Lewis, a 10-time Olympic medal winner, candidly discusses the toll his career took on his mental well-being and personal life in a new documentary. Titled “I’m Carl Lewis,” the film directed by Julie Anderson and Chris Hay premieres at SXSW and will be shown at the festival on March 7, 9, and 12.
In the documentary, Lewis, now 63, reveals that his intense focus on his athletic career prevented him from pursuing long-term relationships out of fear that it would hinder his professional goals. He reflects on never having a private adult life and lacking meaningful, lasting connections due to this sacrifice.
Despite his remarkable success in the Olympics between 1984 and 1996, where he secured multiple gold medals and became one of only four athletes to achieve such a feat, Lewis faced criticism from the media for his perceived arrogance and financial pursuits as an amateur athlete. He also challenged traditional gender norms both on and off the track, prompting further scrutiny.
Lewis addresses rumors about his sexuality that have followed him throughout his career, emphasizing that they have been a constant presence in his life. He recounts a controversial photo shoot in 1994 where he posed in red stilettos for a Pirelli ad, which sparked discussions about his personal life. Despite the backlash, Lewis felt empowered by the experience and remains proud of the statement he made.
Reflecting on the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, where he faced a challenging defeat and subsequent controversy involving Ben Johnson’s disqualification for drug use, Lewis describes the emotional toll it took on him. He recalls feeling emotionally drained and questioning the purpose of his pursuits in the aftermath of the event.
Through his personal revelations and reflections on his athletic journey, Lewis offers a poignant look at the highs and lows of his celebrated career, shedding light on the sacrifices and struggles behind his remarkable achievements.
