What did Tonya Harding think of “I, Tonya”? The film, directed by Craig Gillespie and released in 2017, tells the dramatic story of Tonya Harding, the American figure skater who became famous for her daring jumps and subsequent scandal. The film has garnered both critical acclaim and controversy, prompting many to wonder about Harding’s own opinion of the portrayal. In this article, we will delve into Tonya Harding’s thoughts on the biographical film and explore the impact it had on her life and legacy.
Tonya Harding, born on October 29, 1970, in Portland, Oregon, was a trailblazer in the world of figure skating. She won the U.S. Figure Skating Championships three times and was a two-time Olympian, representing the United States in the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics. However, her career was marred by a notorious incident involving an attack on her rival, Nancy Kerrigan, which led to her eventual downfall.
“I, Tonya” portrays Harding’s life with a blend of humor and drama, showcasing her struggles with poverty, domestic abuse, and the pressures of being a female athlete in a male-dominated sport. The film features a strong performance by Margot Robbie as Tonya, who has been praised for her portrayal of the complex character.
When asked about her thoughts on the film, Tonya Harding expressed mixed feelings. In an interview with CNN, she said, “I thought it was a good movie. It had its funny parts, and it had its sad parts. I think it did a good job of showing the ups and downs of my life.” However, she also mentioned that the film left out some crucial aspects of her life, such as her relationships with her parents and her love for her daughter, Jamie.
Despite the film’s portrayal of her as a flawed but relatable character, Tonya Harding has been critical of certain aspects of the movie. She took issue with the portrayal of her father, Frank, who is depicted as an abusive and controlling figure. In a separate interview with People, she said, “I think they made my dad look like the worst guy in the world. He was a good dad, and he loved me.”
The release of “I, Tonya” has sparked a renewed interest in Tonya Harding’s life and career. While the film has brought her story to the forefront, it has also reignited the debate over her role in the Nancy Kerrigan attack. Some critics argue that the film downplays the severity of the incident, while others believe it accurately portrays the chaos and desperation that surrounded the incident.
In conclusion, Tonya Harding’s thoughts on “I, Tonya” are complex. While she acknowledges the film’s strengths in depicting her life’s ups and downs, she also expresses frustration over certain inaccuracies and the portrayal of her father. The film has undoubtedly impacted her legacy, both positively and negatively, and has sparked a renewed interest in the enigmatic figure skater’s life.
