Ep 4. Charismatic

In the fourth episode of ESPN Films season 1, viewers are taken on a journey through the life and career of racehorse Charismatic. Through interviews with jockeys, trainers, owners, and other industry experts, viewers come to understand the incredible story of this horse's rise to fame.

Charismatic was born in 1996 and struggled to find success early in life. However, under the guidance of trainer D. Wayne Lukas, he began to see improvement and eventually won the 1999 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. This made Charismatic a strong contender for the coveted Triple Crown, but during the Belmont Stakes, disaster struck. Charismatic broke his leg during the race, effectively ending his career.

The episode explores the impact of Charismatic's injury on the horse racing industry and the people who cared for him. Some believed that Charismatic's mechanic failure exemplified how important it is to prioritize the welfare of racehorses over winning at all costs, while others saw him as a symbol of the sacrifices that jockeys and trainers make for their animals.

Although his career was cut short, Charismatic's legacy endures, inspiring other horses and jockeys to strive for greatness. The episode goes beyond the story of Charismatic himself and delves into the broader world of horse racing, offering a thought-provoking look at the sport and its impact on both humans and animals.

Through stunning visuals and expert storytelling, ESPN Films' Charismatic manages to capture the drama and emotion of this incredible story, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in sports, animal welfare, or the intersection of the two.