George Best hailed from humble beginnings in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Born 22 May 1946, he was blessed with a prodigious talent.
He was discovered in 1961, at the age of 15, by Manchester United scout Bob Bishop, whose telegram to United manager Matt Busby famously read: ’I think I've found you a genius’. His local club had rejected him for being ‘too small and light. On Bishop’s advice, he was subsequently given a trial at Manchester United and signed up by chief scout Joe Armstrong. The rest, as they say, is history.
What can we possibly say about George Best that hasn’t already been said? He is recognised as of the greatest dribblers of all time, his playing style combined pace, skill, balance, two-footedness, goal-scoring and the ability to effortlessly beat, and often embarrass, defenders. He is one of the most iconic, and talked about footballers to ever play the game. Not only was he named the greatest player ever by the likes of Pelé, he had a personality, charisma and looks which endeared him to the hearts of millions and made him the world's first celebrity footballer.
'In 1969 I gave up women and alcohol - it was the worst 20 minutes of my life.' — Best quips on his lifestyle.
Best suffered from alcoholism for most of his adult life, leading to numerous controversies and, eventually his death in November 2005.
Renaissance Films are setting out to make George Best: The Movie, the definitive story of one of the greatest footballers ever. They, along with their crowd-funding partner organisation, Tifosy, are offering everyone the chance to do their bit for the making of the movie, and in return, an opportunity to get closer to George than you’d ever think possible. If you'd like to help bring the story of George Best to life on the silver screen, visit the official campaign site here.
£20.00
