THE two creators of the hit Netflix show Making A Murderer, are currently “in discussions” with footballer Ched Evans to film a documentary on his ongoing legal troubles. No title has yet been given for the project but they hinted it could well be another chapter in the “Making a…” series.
Moira Demos and Laura Ricciardi say the former Sheffield United forward approached them, after watching the documentary that he claims “hit home in ways most people couldn’t possibly understand”.
While the filmmakers say they’re unfamiliar with Evans’ case they have been provided with several theories that the former footballer’s legal team have provided. Amongst a large number of alleged conspirators, include the police, the judge, Sheffield Wednesday, Wales, Andrew Colborn and the Premier Inn hotel chain.
Evans is realistic, and knows that he faces a fight to clear his name and restore his reputation as a mediocre footballer. “I have no expectations for this documentary. As long as the creators approach my case with the same bias and one-sidedness as they did with Steven Avery’s, I’ll be happy.”
After being convicted of rape in 2012, the disgraced footballer was sentenced to 5 years in prison, serving half. Throughout his time “on the inside”, Evans, like Avery, strongly maintained his innocence meaning the documentary had a profound effect on Evans. Soon after finishing all ten episodes of the show, he immediately tweeted his follower: “Finally I’ve found someone who’s suffered almost as much as I have, someone who understands the pain of prison through the eyes of an innocent man.”
He continued, saying he would endure the fight for “justice” for both himself and his new “ally”: “Steve was subjected to a similar gross miscarriage of justice to me, and I am joining him in a bid to clear both of our names.”
Avery’s legal team responded to Evans’ words by distancing their client from any potential friendship. “While it’s nice to receive well wishes for our client, we do not welcome any association with Mr. Evans. Our client is actually innocent.”
For those convicted of a serious crime, the social isolation and victimisation can often be the most difficult aspect but Avery and Evans speak regularly. “He just seems so lonely and cut off from the rest of the world. He thinks everyone is out to get him. I call him as often as I can, to try and keep his spirits up while he’s going through such a difficult time,” Avery said.
With Evans and Avery appealing their respective sentences, 2016 promises to be a decisive year in each man’s life. “There’s a lot on the line for both of us,” Evans admitted. “I need to win my appeal so I can return to playing football, and stop taking my father-in-law’s money. While Steve needs to win his appeal so he won’t have to spend the rest of his life in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.”
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