The upcoming FOX Sports documentary, “Destined to Drive: Patrick Dempsey’s Return to Racing,” is set to premiere on Sunday, March 16, following the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The one-hour feature offers an inside look at actor and driver Patrick Dempsey as he ventures back into the world of motorsports after a ten-year hiatus.
The documentary showcases exclusive interviews with key personalities in the racing world, including NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick, three-time American Le Mans Series champion Patrick Long, and Rallycross and Formula Drift champion Tanner Foust. These interviews provide viewers with a behind-the-scenes perspective on Dempsey’s journey as he reignites his passion for professional racing and competes in the Porsche Endurance Challenge.
Patrick Long, a Porsche factory driver, was so inspired by the opportunity to work with Dempsey that he came out of retirement to participate in the project. Reflecting on his return to racing, Dempsey expressed gratitude for the chance to get back behind the wheel alongside Long, acknowledging the importance of having the right team by his side.
The documentary was created by Bobby Akin of Mechanical Rabbit Productions, who followed Dempsey and Long throughout their Porsche Endurance Challenge journey. Akin described the experience as a privilege, capturing Dempsey’s dedication, emotions, and the challenges he faced as he made his way back to the sport.
As Akin recounted, when Dempsey initially shared his plans to return to racing after a lengthy hiatus, there were many uncertainties and questions surrounding his capabilities. Would he still have the skills to compete at a high level? Could he balance his acting career, charitable endeavors, and family commitments with the demands of professional racing? These questions led to the idea of creating a documentary to document Dempsey’s comeback.
The film is not just a story of a well-known figure returning to the racing scene after an extended absence. It delves into themes of friendship, resilience in the face of challenges, and the sacrifices required to pursue one’s passions. Akin emphasized that the journey captured in the documentary is a testament to overcoming obstacles, navigating the pressures of time, work, and personal life, and ultimately, finding joy in the pursuit of a shared goal.
The process of bringing Patrick Dempsey’s story to life on screen was filled with uncertainties and surprises, making it a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience for all involved. The documentary promises to offer viewers a compelling narrative of determination, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of chasing one’s dreams, no matter the obstacles that stand in the way.
