NYC’s Premiere Screening of ‘Clemente’ Documentary In Times Square Hosted By SiriusXM’s DStroy, Presented By NY Latino Film Festival [RECAP]

On what may have been the last 80-degree evening of 2025, Puerto Rican natives, Nuyoricans, and baseball fans packed into the AMC Empire 13 in Times Square for the New York City premiere of Clemente. The powerful documentary takes viewers through the life of late Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, a legend who not only dazzled in the Major Leagues but became a global icon of pride and philanthropy.

The film features reflections from celebrated voices in sports and culture, including broadcaster Bob Costas, Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor, former Pittsburgh Pirates teammates, and members of Clemente’s family. His sons, Roberto Jr. and Luis, spoke candidly about their father’s impact, sharing both personal memories and the stories passed down through generations that highlight how Clemente’s legacy has remained a guiding light long after his untimely death.

Clemente himself is heard throughout the documentary, recounting the struggles he faced as a dark-skinned Puerto Rican navigating racism in the United States. Never one to back down, he stood firmly against discrimination, insisting that if he was good enough to play, he deserved to be treated equally. From challenging segregated travel accommodations to speaking out against unfair treatment in the media, Clemente’s determination helped carve space for future Latino players in Major League Baseball.

Costas, in his commentary, placed Clemente in the same breath as other icons, noting, “It’s Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Roberto Clemente.”

Following the screening, SiriusXM’s DStroy hosted a lively panel with director David Altrogge, MLBPA Senior Director Chris Capuano, and cultural commentator Joel Armogasto Martinez, better known as The Kid Mero. Together, they reflected on Clemente’s enduring significance, both as a ballplayer and as a humanitarian whose story still resonates powerfully today.

September 12 is the film’s premiere date, which will hit silver screens across the country and in the Caribbean.