The city of Leeds is set to host the northern UK premiere of the acclaimed documentary ‘The Last Guest of the Holloway Motel’ a poignant exploration of the life of former Norwich City FC star Tony Powell. This special event, organized in collaboration with Football v Homophobia and the Leeds Queer Film Festival will take place at the historic Hyde Park Picture House on Saturday, July 18, 2026, during Leeds Pride weekend.
The documentary delves into Powell’s extraordinary journey, from his illustrious football career to his decision to leave everything behind and start anew in Los Angeles. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session, offering attendees a unique opportunity to engage with the filmmakers and discuss the broader implications of Powell’s story on LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.
The Story of Tony Powell: A Life in Two Worlds
Tony Powell, once a celebrated centre-back for Norwich City FC and named the club’s Player of the Year in 1979, vanished from the public eye in 1981. The documentary reveals the heartbreaking truth behind his sudden disappearance. Facing the daunting prospect of coming out in an era when homosexuality was still criminalized in England, Powell chose to build a new life in the more accepting environment of Los Angeles.
For decades, Powell managed the dilapidated Holloway Motel in West Hollywood, far removed from the football pitches he once commanded. The documentary, co-directed by Ramiel Petros and Nicholas Freeman, and co-produced by former Leeds United player Robbie Rogers, offers a candid look at Powell’s life, his struggles, and his ultimate journey towards self-acceptance.
A Celebration of Inclusion and Community
The premiere in Leeds is part of the annual Football Pride event, a community initiative designed to bring together LGBTQ+ individuals who share a passion for football. This year’s event is sponsored by the Premier League and aims to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity within the football community.
Football Pride has evolved significantly since its inception as a virtual festival in 2026. Previous in-person celebrations have taken place in Manchester, London, and Leicester, each drawing large crowds and fostering a spirit of camaraderie. The Leeds event promises to continue this tradition, offering a platform for dialogue and celebration.
Accessibility and Community Engagement
Organizers are committed to making the event accessible to everyone in the community. While standard tickets are available for purchase through the Hyde Park Picture House website, a limited number of complimentary tickets have been set aside for those facing financial barriers. Individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to reach out to the Leeds Queer Film Festival directly.
Following the film screening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a live Q&A session. This discussion will explore Powell’s legacy and the evolving culture of LGBTQ+ inclusion in men’s football. The event promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring experience for all involved.
The documentary ‘The Last Guest of the Holloway Motel’ has not yet been released in the UK, making this screening a rare opportunity to experience the film before its wider release. The event is a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and acceptance, and a celebration of the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights within the world of sports.
