American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez episode 4 sticks to fiction over facts (Recap and review)

As a gamer with a deep passion for sports dramas, I have to say that episode 4 of American Sports Story truly hit home for me. The storyline centered around Aaron Hernandez and his relationship with his older brother DJ resonated deeply due to my own personal experiences with siblings in high-pressure environments.

In the fourth installment of “American Sports Story,” Aaron Hernandez becomes a member of the New England Patriots. However, the main focus of this episode is Aaron’s bond with his elder brother DJ. If you haven’t followed the sports saga yet, it would be beneficial to watch episode 4 on Hulu before proceeding further.

heads up! keep in mind that the following discussion contains spoilers, as we’re delving into episode 4 of the series American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez.

The story begins by introducing DJ (played by Ean Castellanos) and Aaron (Josh Andrés Rivera), both as kids. After a play session with his friends, DJ heads home to check if Aaron is up for the next game, since his little brother might want to join. However, the house is eerily silent, and Aaron’s room appears locked. DJ attempts to enter by knocking and pushing against the door. It turns out that Aaron and DJ’s uncle Robert had been inside, as they emerge from the room, with Robert revealing he was merely giving Aaron his birthday money before departing.

It’s evident that there was some unusual event taking place in private, given Aaron’s somber demeanor as he sits on the bed, gazing down. When DJ queries Aaron about his well-being, Aaron’s younger brother abruptly exits the room, pushing DJ aside in the process.

Indeed, it’s been established that Aaron asserted he was a victim of child molestation. Various reliable sources have corroborated this, as Aaron confided in his lawyers and certain individuals about the ordeal. However, Aaron never disclosed the identity of the person who abused him. The portrayal of his uncle being the perpetrator is an element of artistic license added to the series for dramatic effect. Nonetheless, it effectively complements Stu Zicherman’s narrative in Sports Story.

As a gamer immersed in American Sports Story, I found myself drawn into the heart-wrenching tale of brothers Aaron and DJ in episode 4. Just like DJ, I was a kid when I first sensed something amiss, as my uncle would occasionally exit Aaron’s room. But what could a child do but feel confused and powerless?

A tale of two brothers

Currently, DJ functions as a trusted assistant for Aaron. Although DJ might harbor feelings of jealousy towards Aaron’s achievements and bright future, his loyalty surpasses all. Regardless, DJ always puts Aaron’s interests first and stands ready to lead him through every step. Consequently, when DJ proposes that they both train under agent Brian Murphy in Laguna Hills, California, Aaron consents.

Murphy assists in preparing Aaron for the NFL drafts, demonstrating exceptional teaching skills. Among the topics he covers are managing anger and providing appropriate responses to questions, showing humility and composure – areas where Aaron could benefit from additional practice.

During his stay in California, Aaron encounters his physiotherapist, Chris (portrayed by Jake Cannavale), who instantly piques Aaron’s romantic interest. However, it remains unclear whether Chris shares the same feelings. This ambiguity dissipates when Chris unexpectedly asks to visit Aaron’s hotel room.

Throughout this period, despite my main interest being Aaron, I’ve sought Murphy’s aid in job hunting. My dream is to be recognized as a practice squad quarterback, but Murphy thinks I’d excel more as a coach instead.

American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez episode 4 sticks to fiction over facts (Recap and review)

It’s NFL draft time!

Before the major event, or the big day, Aaron undergoes the Wonderlic Personnel Test, which is compulsory for all aspiring NFL players. This test includes questions about Aaron’s ability to quickly trust others and his preference for spending time with family, among other things. When the evaluation results are disclosed, Murphy shows dissatisfaction. Unfortunately, Aaron receives a score of 1 out of 10 in social maturity. Despite his disappointment, Murphy brushes it off, reasoning that he is only 20 years old.

Here’s another interpretation suggesting that Aaron Hernandez appeared unwilling to move on from high school and into professional sports. The story suggests he was in need of support, but those around him fell short. Instead of providing guidance, they pushed him too hard, driven by selfish desires. As depicted in Sports Story, this is the portrayal given.

The one good person in Aaron’s corner is his older brother DJ. The two fight when Aaron isn’t drafted after the first few rounds, blaming his brother for insisting he train with Murphy. DJ gets mad and yells back at Aaron to take responsibility and stop blaming others. DJ also yells that it should be him with all of these opportunities, and not Aaron. Then, Aaron accuses DJ of not protecting him as a big brother should. We get flashbacks of young Aaron and his uncle Robert. The two leave after they are separated by their cousin Tanya (Lindsay Mendez).

If Aaron and DJ were merely acquaintances following their heated argument, it’s likely they wouldn’t have communicated for a while. However, being brothers means they stand by each other through thick and thin. So when DJ hears Aaron’s name announced during the NFL draft’s fourth round on TV, his joy is palpable, prompting him to dash out to congratulate his brother in person. Before DJ even gets to his car, Aaron is already sprinting towards him across the neighborhood, eager to embrace his sibling. Their fight from earlier seems to have vanished as they celebrate their shared moment.

The narrative of our Sports Story is shifting into high gear, so I trust you’ve savored this episode exploring the profound connection between Aaron and DJ. Tune in to American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez episode 5 on FX next Tuesday, October 8, or catch it on Hulu the day after!

2024-10-02 06:28