The 2023 American sports comedy film 80 for Brady has recently received a lot of attention – and how could it not, given its all-star cast? Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field star as a bunch of superfans who fly to see Tom Brady play in the 2017 Super Bowl.
Along with the aforementioned cast members, the film also includes Billy Porter, Alex Moffat, and Guy Fieri, as well as an appearance by the real-life footballer himself.
However, after receiving mixed reviews from critics and a lukewarm 62% on Rotten Tomatoes, this film's brilliant cast may be all it has going for it.
Nonetheless, Brady's 80 continues to excite people's interest. The film debuted at number two in the box office, after only Knock at the Cabin and ahead of Avatar: The Way of Water.
Many people wondered if the electrifying adventure was based on a true story. Buckle up, because this is everything you need to know about the history of 80 for Brady.
Is 80 For Brady Based On a True Story?
Yes, the plot of 80 for Brady is based on a genuine story! The film was inspired by a real group of Tom Brady superfans known as the “Over 80 for Brady” club, according to CBS News Sunday Morning. Elaine St. Martin and Betty Pensavalle, as well as their pals Anita, Pat, and Claire, make up the real gang.
After becoming widows, the group of women bonded and began gathering at each other's homes on game days. “One Sunday here, one Sunday at my house, and it would go right to the five of us,” St. Martin was quoted as saying by CBS.
During the show, both St. Martin and Pensavalle admitted to having feelings for Brady, calling him “handsome” and “gorgeous.”
The ladies gathered so frequently that they titled their organization “Over 80 for Brady” and commissioned Max Pensavalle, Pensavalle's grandson, to create them matching shirts.
They owe Max their success in taking over Hollywood. The grandson, who works in Hollywood, pitched a film to the fan club, which drew the attention and support of Tom Brady, who produced and starred in the film. The rest, as they say, is history.
What Is 80 For Brady About?
The true 80 For Brady club was made up of five ladies who had known each other for almost 70 years: Elaine, Betty, Anita, Pat, and Claire.
The friends had always been football enthusiasts, but when they were widowed, they came together and bonded even more through their love for the New England Patriots, particularly the oft-mentioned Tom Brady.
The pals gathered each week to watch Brady and the Patriots, and their devotion earned them the moniker “Over 80 For Brady” club.
Read More: Is Netflix’s Tin And Tina Based On A True Story?
Elaine and Betty were the first to join the group, followed by Anita and, eventually, Claire and Pat.
The gang said on CBS Sunday Morning (via YouTube) that they had always been friends, but football weekends together gave them a newfound closeness and was a terrific moment in their life.
Betty's grandson even designed matching t-shirts for the “Over 80 For Brady” group, which became such a significant part of their life.
