BBC1 preps bereavement doc

BBC1 in the UK has ordered a one-off documentary about an English footballer and his life after his wife died aged just 34.

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand: Being Mum & Dad (1×60′) will air in the spring and follows the former Manchester United player as he explores how bereaved parents attempt to come to terms with loss.

Ferdinand’s wife Rebecca died from breast cancer in May 2015 and the documentary explores ways of managing grief and looking after children.

Alison Kirkham, controller of factual commissioning and events, said: “Rio Ferdinand has courageously allowed the cameras to follow him in this revealing and immensely personal documentary exploring the complexities of grief.

“This candid film will offer BBC1 audiences an intimate exploration of the ways in which men similarly bereaved cope with their loss.”