Sally on Disney+ Reveals NASA Astronaut’s 27-Year Love Story

She became the first American woman in space, but behind Sally Ride’s historic achievements was a remarkable love story that remained private for nearly three decades. Now, an award-winning documentary on Disney+ gives viewers an intimate look at the astronaut’s relationship with fellow scientist Tam O’Shaughnessy.

Sally, released in 2025 by National Geographic Documentary Films, explores the pioneering astronaut’s extraordinary career alongside the 27-year relationship she shared with Tam, who tells their story in her own words.

The woman behind the NASA legend

Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Cristina Costantini, the 103-minute documentary combines personal archives, interviews and dramatic recreations to explore Sally’s public achievements and private life.

Tam, who also serves as an executive producer, shares memories of their relationship, including the challenges of keeping their love away from public attention while Sally became one of the world’s most recognisable astronauts.

The documentary also features tennis legend Billie Jean King, Sally’s sister Bear, her mother Joyce and former NASA colleagues, including astronauts Kathy Sullivan, Anna Fisher and Steve Hawley.

Cristina, who previously directed Science Fair and Mucho Mucho Amor, wanted to explore the person behind the famous NASA photographs, celebrating Sally’s accomplishments while sharing the relationship that had remained largely unknown to the public.

The emotional conversation before Sally’s death

Sally and Tam first met as young tennis players in California, developing a friendship that eventually became a romantic relationship in 1985.

Although their family and closest friends knew they were together, their relationship was not publicly acknowledged during Sally’s lifetime.

Shortly before Sally died from pancreatic cancer in July 2012, Tam began planning a celebration of her life. She wondered how she should introduce herself to people who had never known they were a couple.

Sally left the decision to her partner, telling her:

“You decide. Whatever you decide will be the right thing to do.”

Following Sally’s death, Tam chose to acknowledge their relationship publicly in her obituary, identifying herself as her partner of 27 years.

The documentary gives Tam the opportunity to share their story more fully, remembering the woman she loved while celebrating the pioneering scientist admired around the world.

An award-winning documentary

Sally made its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2025, winning the Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize for its portrayal of science and the people behind scientific achievement.

The film brings together Sally’s groundbreaking NASA career, the expectations placed upon her and the relationship she shared with Tam, offering a more personal portrait of an extraordinary woman.

Watch the trailer:

Where to watch Sally in the UK

Sally is available to stream on Disney+ in the UK with a subscription. The documentary runs for approximately one hour and 43 minutes.

Image credit: National Geographic Documentary Films/Disney