Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story

Nate Adams, Adam Carolla

Willy T. Ribbs was the Jackie Robinson of auto racing. Despite being a Formula Ford champion in England, Willy T. had another race to win when he returned to America—the race against bigotry. Many owners, mechanics, sponsors, and drivers in the racing world derisively referred to Willy as “Uppity” behind his back; death-threats, unwarranted suspensions, and engine sabotage followed him throughout his journey in racing. Despite the setbacks, he was an amazing driver and he became one of the winningest drivers in the history of the Trans Am series. The establishment did everything in their power to keep this great driver down, based on his defiant attitude and antics. Through sheer determination, Willy shattered the color barrier in professional racing, becoming the first Black man to race in the Indy 500.

Reviews

The saga of race car driver Willy T. Ribbs features racism, car crashes, triumphs, tragedies and two of the most tabloid-friendly figures of the decade. Bill Cosby and Caitlyn Jenner.
Christian Toto, Hollywood Toto
What was perceived as arrogance by fans, media and some drivers was really confidence manifested in someone with a skin tone that supposedly didn't belong. But Ribbs belonged - and he'll tell you exactly why…
Jason Clinkscales, Decider

Genre: Biography, Documentary, Sport

Run Time: 109 min

Year of Production: 2020

Language: English

Director: Nate Adams, Adam Carolla

Cast:

Willy T. Ribbs ()
Phillip Ribbs ()
Bernie Ecclestone ()