
Here’s everything you need to know about Surviving Ohio State (2025), HBO’s documentary exposing the Ohio State University abuse scandal, its release, where to watch it, cast details, and more.
HBO Documentary Surviving Ohio State Synopsis
Surviving Ohio State is a HBO Original documentary that explores the shocking sexual abuse scandal involving Dr. Richard Strauss, a former Ohio State University (OSU) athletics doctor. Produced by George Clooney, Grant Heslov, and David Glasser, and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Eva Orner, this documentary exposes the long-standing abuse and the survivors’ ongoing fight for justice. With a runtime of 1 hour 51 minutes, it provides an unflinching look at a dark chapter in collegiate sports history.
Surviving Ohio State tells the harrowing story of male student-athletes and others who suffered abuse at the hands of Dr. Richard Strauss, who worked at OSU from 1978 to 1998. Through courageous interviews with former All-American wrestlers, student-athlete alumni, whistleblowers, and journalists, the documentary uncovers the culture that enabled decades of unchecked abuse. It builds on the 2018 revelations that brought the scandal into the public eye and is based on Jon Wertheim’s Sports Illustrated feature “Why Aren’t More People Talking About the Ohio State Sex Abuse Scandal?”. The film highlights the survivors’ pursuit of accountability and institutional change at OSU.
When Does Surviving Ohio State Premiere in Australia?
Surviving Ohio State premieres in Australia on June 18, 2025, following its US debut on HBO.
Were to watch Surviving Ohio State in Australia?
You can watch Surviving Ohio State in Australia by subscribing to Max and streaming the documentary on your preferred device. Simply log in with your Max account to access the film in high definition. This lets you enjoy the documentary on smart TVs, tablets, computers, or smartphones.
Surviving Ohio State Documentary Cast
The documentary features personal interviews with survivors and key voices in the case:
- Mark Coleman – Former OSU wrestler and UFC champion
- Adam DiSabato – Former OSU wrestler
- Michael DiSabato – Whistleblower and former OSU wrestler
- Will Knight
- Al Novakowski
- Rockey Ratliff
- Dan Ritchie
- Mike Schyck
- Stephen Snyder-Hill – OSU alumnus and advocate
- Frederick Feeney – Wrestling referee
Is Surviving Ohio State Suitable for All Ages?
No, Surviving Ohio State is not suitable for all ages. The documentary is rated R due to its sensitive subject matter involving sexual abuse and institutional failures. It is intended for mature audiences and may not be appropriate for younger viewers.
FAQs
What is the significance of the Richard Strauss case?
The Richard Strauss case is one of the largest sexual abuse scandals in U.S. collegiate sports history, with over 300 former students reporting abuse during his tenure at Ohio State University. It highlights systemic failures that allowed abuse to persist for decades.
Did Ohio State University settle with survivors?
Yes, Ohio State University has agreed to pay more than $60 million in settlements to hundreds of survivors following investigations and lawsuits related to Strauss’s abuse.
What inspired the making of Surviving Ohio State?
The documentary was inspired by Jon Wertheim’s Sports Illustrated article and the courageous efforts of survivors, whistleblowers, and journalists who brought the story to national attention.
Where was Surviving Ohio State first shown?
The documentary had its world premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Festival on June 9, 2025, before its broadcast debut on HBO.
Who produced Surviving Ohio State?
The film was produced by Eva Orner, David Glasser, George Clooney, and Grant Heslov, in collaboration with HBO Sports Documentaries, Smokehouse Pictures, 101 Studios, and Sports Illustrated Studios.
Surviving Ohio State Trailer
You can watch the trailer here:
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