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Astronaut Sally discloses the reasons behind the private personal decision of a pioneering space explorer to maintain a low-profile regarding their sexual orientation.

National Geographic film helmed by Cristina Costantini delves into the private life of astronaut Sally Ride, featuring insights from partner Tam O'Shaughnessy, friends, and family.

National Geographic film helmed by Cristina Costantini delves into the private world of astronaut...
National Geographic film helmed by Cristina Costantini delves into the private world of astronaut Sally Ride, featuring insights from partner Tam O’Shaughnessy, friends, and relatives.

Astronaut Sally discloses the reasons behind the private personal decision of a pioneering space explorer to maintain a low-profile regarding their sexual orientation.

Roaring through the Cosmos and Loving Life:

Sally Ride, the legendary astronaut, is immortalized in the inspiring documentary "Sally," premiering on National Geographic this Monday at 9 p.m., followed by streaming on Hulu and Disney+. Filmmaker Cristina Costantini, who painted a mural of her idol as a child, pays homage to her teenage hero.

But "Sally" doesn't just celebrate the inspiring journey of a Dodgers fan from Encino with dreams bigger than Texas, who ultimately became the first Valley girl in space. It delves into Ride's private life, particularly her long-term relationship with Tam O'Shaughnessy, her life partner and long-time partner-in-crime, which remained a secret until Ride's passing.

"I was worried that the film might be too hard on Sally," Tam admits. "But it doesn't come across that way." Instead, the documentary sensitively unfolds an untold love story. Dramatizations, love letters, photographs, and home videos showcase a content couple who managed a hidden life away from the spotlight. Ride's sexuality shines brightly, no longer a mere footnote, as the documentary dives into why the astronaut chose to live in the closet.

Tam reveals that Sally and Tam got together in the 80s, a time when public displays of a same-sex relationship could jeopardize one's career and opportunities. "It's like it's dicey again today to be out," Tam admits, expressing her concern for the young viewers of the film who deserve to see the reasons behind their decision to stay in the closet.

The documentary weaves in the coming-out stories of Billie Jean King and Karen "Bear" Ride, Sally's sister. Billie Jean lost sponsorship after her secretary outed her during her tennis career's zenith, while Bear was a trailblazing lesbian Presbyterian minister. Their stories provide context to Sally's life, reflecting on the influences that shaped her choices.

Throughout her career, Ride experienced gender prejudice and resistance from her peers and the media. The documentary sensitively portrays this reality, helping viewers appreciate the reasons behind Ride's preference for privacy and the potential homophobia she aimed to avoid.

"I think the bravery that Sally had was the bravery of living her life exactly the way she wanted to live it," Costantini explains. "She did the things she wanted to do. She loved the people she wanted to love. She was true to herself."

Despite Sally's private life, her dedication to Tam is evident in the documentary. The film serves as a tribute to their partnership and an earnest effort to set the record straight, highlighting their love story in the history books alongside Ride's incredible accomplishments.

Streaming Pride:

Five Must-Watch Series for June

Celebrate Pride Month with these LGBTQ+ series, featuring a final bow from a renowned comedy, a reality competition with a fresh take on drag art, and more.

  • 'Overcompensating'
  • 'Big Mouth'
  • 'Queer Eye'
  • 'Drag Race UK'
  • 'Special'
  • The documentary "Sally" showcases Sally Ride's life, including her love for entertainment such as the Dodgers and music.
  • The series "Drag Race UK" is one of five must-watch shows for June, aligning with the theme of Pride Month, focusing on drag art and LGBTQ+ representation.
  • Despite facing adversity in her career due to gender prejudice, Sally Ride's story highlights her bravery in living her life authentically, much like the characters in the comedy series "Overcompensating" and the streaming-exclusive "Special."
  • The television program "Big Mouth" and the reality competition "Queer Eye" also promote representation and awareness of various aspects of the LGBTQ+ community, contributing to a more inclusive entertainment landscape.

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