The highly anticipated HBO documentary Surviving Ohio State, directed by Eva Orner and produced by George Clooney, is set to premiere at the Tribeca Festival on June 9, 2025, with a nationwide release on June 17, 2025. The film delves into the harrowing abuse scandal involving Dr. Richard Strauss, a former Ohio State University team doctor who sexually abused at least 177 male students during his tenure from 1978 to 1998.
A Deep Dive into the Strauss Scandal
Surviving Ohio State is based on Jon Wertheim’s 2020 Sports Illustrated article, “Why Aren’t More People Talking About the Ohio State Sex Abuse Scandal?” The documentary aims to shed light on the systemic failures that allowed Strauss’s abuse to continue unchecked for decades.
The film features interviews with survivors, legal experts, and investigative journalists, providing a comprehensive look at the abuse and its lasting impact on the victims and the university community. It also explores the role of public figures, including Rep. Jim Jordan, who has faced criticism for allegedly ignoring complaints about Strauss during his time as an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State.
Legal and Institutional Responses
In response to the allegations, Ohio State University conducted an independent investigation, which concluded in 2019 that Strauss had abused students and that the university had failed to appropriately respond at the time.
The university has since reached settlements with 296 survivors, totaling over $60 million. These settlements were part of a trauma-informed approach that did not require survivors to undergo litigation processes such as discovery or depositions.
Despite these efforts, some lawsuits remain unresolved. In 2022, a federal appeals court revived several lawsuits that had been dismissed due to expired statutes of limitations, allowing survivors to pursue legal action.
Survivor Support and Ongoing Commitments
Ohio State has committed to supporting survivors by covering the cost of professionally certified counseling services and treatment for anyone affected by Strauss, whether counseling and treatment occurred in the past or are needed at any point in the future.
The university has also taken steps to prevent and address sexual misconduct, including implementing policies, programs, staffing, and tools designed to protect students and the campus community from sexual abuse.
Looking Ahead
As Surviving Ohio State premieres, it brings renewed attention to the Strauss abuse cases and the ongoing efforts for justice and accountability. The documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of institutional responsibility and the need for continued support for survivors.
For those seeking more information or support, Ohio State has established resources through Praesidium, a provider of confidential and sensitive support services. Individuals can contact Praesidium at 888-961-9273 or visit their website for more information.
The release of Surviving Ohio State marks a significant moment in the ongoing journey toward justice for the survivors of Dr. Strauss’s abuse.
