Is ‘80 for Brady’ Based on a True Story?

The 2023 American sports comedy movie 80 for Brady has been all the hype lately – and how could it not, given its all-star cast? The movie stars Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno and Sally Field as a group of megafans who travel to watch Tom Brady play in the 2017 Super Bowl. 

In addition to the aforementioned cast, the movie also stars Billy Porter, Alex Moffat, and Guy Fieri – and features a cameo from the real-life footballer himself. However, its glowing cast may be all this movie has going for itself after it premiered last week to mixed reviews from critics, garnering a lukewarm 62% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Nevertheless, 80 for Brady continues to pique people’s interest. The movie had a successful box office opening, clocking in at number two, behind Knock at the Cabin and ahead of Avatar: The Way of Water.

This left many wondering if this electric adventure was based on a true story. Buckle up, here’s everything you need to know about the origins of 80 for Brady. 

Is 80 For Brady Based On a True Story?

Yes, 80 for Brady is based on a true story! According to CBS News Sunday Morning, the movie was inspired by a real group of Tom Brady super-fans who dubbed themselves the “Over 80 for Brady” club. The real group consists of Elaine St. Martin and Betty Pensavalle and their friends Anita, Pat and Claire.

The group of women bonded after they became widows and started gathering together at each other’s houses on game days. “One Sunday here, one Sunday at my house, and it would go right to the five of us,” St. Martin told CBS. During the broadcast, St. Martin and Pensavalle both agreed that they have the hots for Brady, calling him “handsome” and “gorgeous.” 

The ladies gathered so often that they named their club “Over 80 for Brady” and enlisted Pensavalle’s grandson, Max, to make them matching shirts. When it came to taking over Hollywood, they have Max to thank. The grandson, who works in Hollywood, pitched a movie about the fan club and garnered the attention and support from Tom Brady, who produced and stars in the movie. The rest is history. 

How to Watch 80 For Brady:

As of now, 80 For Brady is only playing in theaters following its release by Paramount Pictures on Friday, Feb. 3. Soon, it’s expected to arrive on VOD platforms like Amazon, Apple, Vudu and YouTube and is likely to stream on Paramount+.