When asked whether he consulted anyone who knew Aaron Hernandez personally or professionally for his portrayal, Rivera noted, “I didn’t have that resource.” He acknowledged that seeking input could complicate the storytelling process, as advisors often have their own motives for how they want the narrative shaped.
Rivera found some relief in his independence, stating it allowed him to absorb the available information and interpret it through his own lens. Initially, he felt “really nervous” about taking on the role of such a controversial figure.
“I aimed to approach the subject as objectively as possible,” he shared, admitting that his relative unfamiliarity with the case helped him process the information without the bias of passionate insiders.
He emphasized, “My responsibility was to portray the story to the best of my ability. I just hope viewers appreciate my effort.”
Aaron Hernandez’s Journey
Hernandez was a standout tight end, known for his dynamic partnership with Rob Gronkowski on the New England Patriots, catching passes from the legendary Tom Brady. However, his career ended abruptly in 2013 after he was arrested for the murder of his former friend Odin Lloyd, who might have known about Hernandez’s hidden attraction to men. Following his arrest, the Patriots promptly released him.
In 2015, he was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Two years after, although he was acquitted of double homicide charges connected to a 2012 case, he tragically took his own life in prison just a few days later.
Hernandez was implicated in the July 2012 drive-by shooting deaths of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado, but was acquitted of those charges in April 2017, shortly before his death. The prosecution alleged the shootings stemmed from a spilled drink at a nightclub.
Social Media’s Impact on Hernandez’s Life
When considering how Hernandez’s life might have differed in today’s social media-hungry environment, Rivera speculated, “He likely would have faced more suspensions during college and professional games.” He added that perhaps the public wouldn’t have been so blindsided by his actions if more footage had surfaced in real-time.
He observed that the complexity of Hernandez’s story largely stemmed from the shock factor; it seemed like no one believed he was capable of such extremes. “Given his impulsive nature, it’s hard to say if social media would have changed his behavior, but it likely would have shifted public perception,” Rivera concluded.
Personal Connections
Rivera noted some personal similarities with Hernandez, saying, “We both smile a lot. I use smiling as a defense mechanism, too.” He focused on channeling a sense of “real boyishness” in his performance.
Catch new episodes of American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez every Tuesday at 10 p.m. on FX, with streaming available on Hulu until the season finale on November 12.