Richard Strauss Documentary "Surviving Ohio State" Debuts June 17: HBO Viewing Guide

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 18, 2025

4.9

Share

Richard Strauss Documentary "Surviving Ohio State" Debuts June 17: Your HBO Viewing Guide

The long-awaited HBO documentary, "Surviving Ohio State," detailing the decades-long abuse scandal involving former Ohio State University team doctor Richard Strauss, premieres on June 17th. This isn't just another sports documentary; it's a crucial examination of systemic failures, institutional cover-ups, and the devastating impact of sexual abuse on countless individuals. For those seeking to understand the full scope of the scandal and its ramifications, this viewing guide will help you prepare.

What is "Surviving Ohio State" About?

The documentary dives deep into the shocking allegations against Richard Strauss, who worked at Ohio State University from 1978 to 1998. Strauss allegedly sexually abused hundreds of male students, athletes, and staff members during his tenure. "Surviving Ohio State" utilizes extensive interviews with survivors, alongside archival footage and investigative reporting, to paint a comprehensive picture of the scandal and the subsequent fight for justice. The film explores not only the horrific acts themselves but also the institutional failures that allowed the abuse to continue for so long. It highlights the systemic issues within the university, the lack of accountability, and the long, arduous journey of survivors seeking recognition and healing.

Key Themes Explored in the Documentary:

• The Scale of the Abuse: The documentary underscores the sheer magnitude of Strauss's alleged crimes, highlighting the numerous victims and the lasting trauma they endured.
• Institutional Failures: It examines the roles played by university officials, coaches, and others who allegedly knew about or ignored the abuse. The documentary questions how such a pervasive problem could have gone undetected for so long.
• The Survivors' Stories: Central to the narrative are the brave survivors who share their harrowing experiences, detailing the abuse and the subsequent struggle for justice and accountability.
• The Fight for Justice: The film traces the survivors' long and difficult journey to bring Strauss's actions to light, initiate investigations, and seek redress from Ohio State University. It shows the resilience and determination of those who fought for justice despite significant obstacles.
• The Aftermath and Legacy: "Surviving Ohio State" considers the long-term consequences of the scandal, including its impact on the university's reputation, the lives of the survivors, and the broader conversation surrounding sexual abuse in institutions.

Why You Should Watch "Surviving Ohio State":

This isn't just a sports story; it's a story about the power dynamics within institutions, the importance of accountability, and the enduring strength of survivors. "Surviving Ohio State" offers a crucial opportunity to learn about a significant event, understand the complexities of sexual abuse, and appreciate the courage of those who came forward to share their stories. The documentary serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and holding institutions responsible for their actions.

How to Watch "Surviving Ohio State":

The documentary premieres on HBO on June 17th. You can watch it live on HBO channels or stream it on demand through the HBO Max streaming service.

Beyond the Documentary:

For further information and resources relating to sexual assault and abuse, consider visiting:

"Surviving Ohio State" promises to be a powerful and moving documentary. Prepare yourself for a difficult but essential viewing experience that will leave a lasting impact. Don't miss its premiere on June 17th on HBO.