Globalizing Football
Sep 13, 2009 China, globalization
The National Football League has tried and failed to build international audiences, but now they’ve set their sights on China with a new strategy: a reality show starring a Chinese rock band. WaPo buried the money quote on page two:
It was obvious after watching one taping that the reality show will not have the usual sheen of an NFL Films production. But then, it doesn’t have to. The intent is to produce a campy, lighthearted program that will convince Chinese children that if they want to learn the essence of America they must come to understand American football. (Emphasis mine)
They might have a point: George Will once described football as “a combination of the two worst elements of American life. Violence and committee meetings.”
Adding: I’m trying to raise $500 to do some investigative journalism! Click here to help.
