Kordell Stewart addresses false rumors in HBO documentary

Former NFL quarterback Kordell Stewart is addressing a damaging and fabricated rumor from his playing career in the new HBO documentary, ‘Kordell Stewart: Slash & Burn’. The film explores his rise to stardom with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the mental toll caused by a false allegation that emerged in 1998.

During his career, a rumor circulated claiming Stewart had been arrested for inappropriate behavior at Schenley Park. While no police records supported the claim, the rumor spread rapidly, leading to racial and homophobic abuse from some fans. An investigation by Steelers owner Dan Rooney later revealed that the rumor had been started by a police officer.

Former teammate Jerome Bettis noted in the documentary that Stewart faced unique pressures and verbal abuse that other players did not, including instances of racial slurs and physical harassment from fans. Stewart described the documentary as a cathartic experience, stating it was necessary to speak out for the sake of his family and those who were bullied by the controversy.