The reviews are in: “must watch”, “inspirational”, “our greatest sportsperson ever”.
The award-winning Katie has generated massive praise online following its television debut on Tuesday night on RTÉ One.
The documentary paints a searing, deeply personal profile of Bray boxer Katie Taylor as she hit a career low and bounced back from defeat at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Taylor, who now holds two world titles and is challenging for a third, took to Twitter on Wednesday to thank a flood of well-wishers:
Thank you so much to everyone for all the positive comments with the documentary. It's been humbling and heartwarming! #KATIE
— Katie Taylor (@KatieTaylor) January 16, 2019
The film, directed by Ross Whitaker and released to cinemas in October, drew big praise from fellow Irish Olympian, Michael Conlan:
Just watched “KATIE” inspiration stuff, an amazing insight to KT, what a women @KatieTaylor 💚
— Michael Conlan (@mickconlan11) January 15, 2019
Viewers across Wicklow and beyond have gushed about Taylor’s courage and honesty in the film, which charts her successful path into professional boxing:
One of the best sporting documentaries in recent years. Open, honest portrayal of one of Ireland’s most driven and successful athletes ever. Every young athlete in any sport could learn from her example. Multiple champion for a reason. @KatieTaylor #KATIE
— David Jones (@David_Jon3s) January 17, 2019
https://twitter.com/AndyBishop81/status/1085466661443026944
Absolutely brilliant film #Katie on @RTEOne in awe of Katie Taylor’s strength and determination when it looked like she was done after the Rio disappointment she takes on the world 💪 #inspiration #worldchamp 🇮🇪 #unstoppable 🙌
— Ruth Kennedy (@RuthKennedyy) January 15, 2019
Such raw emotion pouring out in the #Katie documentary. It’s hard to watch at times, but compelling viewing. Talk about talent, work ethic, and #integrity! We’re lucky to have such an ambassador for Irish sport, @KatieTaylor – you’re truly incredible! #backingbray
— Nuala Ryan (@NualaRyan) January 15, 2019
Superb documentary on @RTEOne. @KatieTaylor is our greatest sportsperson ever. What a story and inspiration for every young person with a dream #Katie
— Cllr Peter O’Brien (@CllrOBrien) January 15, 2019
Watching @KatieTaylor’s doc on rte. What an inspirational woman, so honest and driven. From my time in Bray I saw how positive her influence was on the kids from her area. She showed them the power of hard work and perseverance #Katie
— Holly McAndrew (@HollyMcAndrew2) January 15, 2019
The documentary has even drawn rave reviews from non-boxing fans:
I am not a fan of boxing – generally leave the room if it is on TV / have left dinners for keynote speeches – just watched KATIE on @RTEsport … and it was POWERFUL and inspirational. Now a fan … of Katie! What a woman and role model @KatieTaylor
— Annser (@MHC_Annser) January 15, 2019
Haven’t been paying attention to Taylor’s career to date? It’s not too late.
The stage is set for her next fight as she seeks to become a triple world-title holder. Taylor faces Rose Volante for the WBO World Lightweight title in Philadelphia on March 16.
Missed the documentary on first showing? You can still catch it via the RTÉ Player here.
