Netflix is set to release a new documentary titled “We Are Family”, celebrating the Pittsburgh Pirates’ iconic 1979 World Series championship and the unifying anthem that defined their season. The film delves into how Sister Sledge’s disco hit “We Are Family” became the team’s rallying cry, symbolizing their unity and resilience.
The documentary features interviews with key players from the 1979 team, including Willie “Pops” Stargell, who was instrumental in adopting the song as the team’s theme. Stargell’s leadership and the team’s camaraderie are highlighted as pivotal factors in their championship run. The film also explores the cultural impact of the song and how it resonated with fans and the broader community during that era.
“We Are Family” is part of Netflix’s ongoing collaboration with Major League Baseball to produce original content that brings baseball’s rich history to life. The documentary aims to provide both longtime fans and new audiences with an in-depth look at a defining moment in sports history.
The release date for *We Are Family* has not been officially announced, but it is expected to premiere later this year. Fans can look forward to a nostalgic journey that not only celebrates a team’s triumph but also the enduring power of music and unity in sports.
Netflix’s We Are Family features exclusive interviews with surviving members of the ’79 squad, including Kent Tekulve, Phil Garner, and Omar Moreno. Through emotional and candid reflections, players recount the challenges they faced, the racism and adversity some overcame, and the chemistry that made them feel like more than teammates—they were truly a family.
Willie Stargell, affectionately nicknamed “Pops,” is remembered as the emotional core of the team. The film revisits how his leadership galvanized the Pirates and helped forge one of the most cohesive units in Major League Baseball history. In one of the documentary’s standout moments, teammates recall how Stargell would hand out “Stargell Stars” for standout efforts, building morale and fostering unity.
Set against the backdrop of late 1970s America—marked by political turbulence, economic uncertainty, and cultural shifts—the film also reflects on the broader impact the Pirates had. The team’s roster, one of the most diverse in MLB at the time, showcased racial harmony during a period of division across the country. This dynamic, alongside the team’s musical rallying cry, turned them into symbols of hope and inclusivity.
Director and longtime baseball documentarian Carla Stewart says the story goes beyond the diamond. “This isn’t just about a baseball team winning a championship,” Stewart explains. “It’s about how a song, a spirit, and a group of players came together to represent something bigger than themselves. It’s a love letter to teamwork, perseverance, and joy.”
The film is the latest in Netflix’s growing lineup of sports documentaries, joining the ranks of The Last Dance and Untold. MLB is also collaborating with Netflix to provide archival footage, access to league historians, and promotional support, ensuring authenticity and depth.
Though an official release date has yet to be announced, We Are Family is expected to premiere in late 2025, aligning with the 46th anniversary of the Pirates’ historic World Series win.
As fans of the black and gold know, the 1979 Pirates were more than champions—they were a movement. With Netflix’s We Are Family, a new generation will get to experience the heart, hustle, and harmony that made the “Lumber Company” unforgettable.
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