WRIGHT ON TIME

ARSENAL legend Ian Wright is set to have his story told on the silver screen after a biopic on the football hero was announced.

Wright, 62, has partnered with music superstar Stormzy‘s film company #Merky Films, who are set to co-produce the flick.

The film will tell the story of the rise of Wrighty from a difficult childhood, up through the ranks of amateur football and eventually to his place at the top of the sporting world.

The film will also feature the story of how his beloved former teacher Sydney Pigden inspired him to pursue his dreams, and how he fought through the pain of rejection to become one of the Premier League’s most respected stars.

Wright said of the biopic: “Telling my story in full for the first time feels surreal and, in some ways, a long time coming.

“There are parts of my life that will be familiar because they’ve been talked about over the years, but this film is the first time we’re bringing it all together.”

The movie is set to be written by Tom Wilton, a filmmaker who grew up on the same South London estate as Wright, Honor Oak.

The ex-England star continued: “Retelling my story to Tom has also made me realise how much Britain has changed from my parents arriving here on the Windrush, what that meant for me and my brothers, and the experiences that will never leave me.

“I hope it shows how complicated life can be for a young person and the influence people around you can have – good and bad.

“My story is one that truly shows how the company you keep can break you down and build you up. There are hard-hitting moments but in the end I want it to give people hope and joy.”

Wright won a Premier League, two FA Cups, a Premier League Golden Boot and was a two-time Player of the Year for the Gunners.

Since retiring from professional sports in 2000, Wright has gone on to become one of football’s most-beloved pundits.

His efforts extend beyond the realm of the men’s game, becoming a champion of women’s football.

Stormzy previously produced and acted in a short film ‘Big Man’ in partnership with tech giant Apple.

But this new, feature-length project represents a new step for the brand.

Stormzy said of his company’s involvement: “It’s a real honour for #Merky Films to be co-producing Ian Wright’s story.

“Wrighty’s journey goes far beyond football – it’s about resilience, family and believing in yourself against the odds.

“He’s inspired generations on and off the pitch and we’re so proud to help bring such an important and powerful story to the screen.”

Castings are yet to be made for the film and a release date has not been set – Sun.