To My Father | Documentary | Featuring Troy Kotsur

"To My Father" is the story behind the speech that moved millions. Through American Sign Language (ASL), Troy narrates his courageous journey of achievement, drawing viewers into the world of the Deaf and presenting the challenges he faced to fit into the hearing world.
In March 2022, at the 94th annual Academy Awards, Troy Kotsur became the first Deaf man to take home the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for his moving portrayal of Frank Rossi in CODA. During his emotional acceptance speech, Troy paid tribute to his dad, or as he so eloquently put it, his “hero”.
The film explores his inspirational relationship with his dad who made it his mission to excel at ASL so he could be the best possible father to Troy. While growing up, Leonard Kotsur instilled a deep belief into Troy that he could achieve anything he set out to accomplish, and encouraged him to "follow his spark" and pursue his passion for acting.
Troy Kotsur: “My dad raised a Deaf child in a time when the roadmap was not as available as it is today, but he navigated it with love. Crafting this film was an emotional journey. These are the stories that are important for us to share, and it is an honor for me to tell the world about my father. I’m the man that I am today because of my dad and this film is a tribute to him. Through this story, I hope to pass along pieces of the inspiration and wisdom that helped me through my most difficult times.”
"To My Father," and Troy’s personal story, are truly inspiring and contain valuable lessons that can help each of us overcome the setbacks and challenges we all inevitably come to face in our own lives.
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CREDITS:
Sean Schiavolin - Director, Writer
John Papola - Producer
Justin Bergeron - Producer
Troy Kotsur - Producer
Mark Finley - Executive Producer
Mark Henrie - Executive Producer
Brody Carmichael - Director of Photography
Joshua Meyers - Edited by
Brian Behm - Visual Effects
Hanan Townshend - Original Score by
Cast:
Troy Kotsur - Himself
Lawson Swob - Young Troy
Tyrone Reins - Len Kotsur / Interpreter
Cayden Phoenix King - School-Age Troy
Maxwell Harris - Teenage Troy
Kyra Kotsur - Herself
Josef Schiavolin - Echo Kid
Zylander Yerkes - Echo Kid 2
Aleyna Garcia - Bus kid
Sienna Vita - Bus kid
Zylia Singleton - Bus kid
Zyra Singleton - Bus kid
Zeke Dannis - Bus kid
Janella Vita - Bus kid
Rocco Vita - Bus kid
Zade Garcia - Bus kid
Zalita Yerkes - Bus kid
Bill Geiman - Detective
Eric Seiss - Detective
Janell Bruneau - Troy’s Mom
Peggy Wenger - Troy’s Office Boss
Nolan Pfeffinger - Troy’s Brother
Dad Saves America is a channel dedicated to celebrating heroic fatherhood while teaching the next generation of fathers strategies they can utilize in parenting their children. We believe strong children come from a strong family. We’ve had many experts in the studio, including Jonathan Haidt, Dr. Drew Pinsky, Troy Kotsur, John Mackey, Ben Askren, and Adam Carolla.
#troykotsur #deafcommunity #shortfilm #documentary

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Leave a comment during the premiere for a chance to win some Dad Saves America merch!

[@susanwest8239]

You are great!!!!

[@kristilee3ful]

Hope to see more of this story about Troy and his dad. Remind me of my friend Kim’s Deaf Dad was paralyzed half way down from flu shot. He had to relearn how to walking, eating and signing ASL. He is still living in Austin, Texas. With Troy’s story, it’s very powerful message. 😢🤟🏻 Glad you created this powerful documentary film for our Deaf community. Thank you 💕

[@kathleenbrockway1954]

Brilliant film.

[@shellienicklos4388]

So beautiful! Thank you for sharing! !

[@tinacoover3740]

This was wonderful! I loved it. Troy, I know your father is so proud of you.

[@TaylorMoore4K]

Cried through 75% of this. What an incredible story. We need FAR more stories of wonderful men serving and loving their families. These are how a nation is revived. Dads of faith.

[@DadSavesAmerica]

It gets me every time.

[@marilyncalkins3866]

That what touching and inspirational. So many parents could learn from what true unconditional love your dad had for Troy . I work with Deaf Immigrants and I'm going to share this with them!!

[@Lynnda86]

As a mother of 6 and Nonna of 15, I have had countless trials in my life from age 5 to 55. I was fortunate enough to have been born into a strong fauth-filled family who instilled the same "spark" mentality in me. This touched me deeply on so many levels. As I approach the 16th anniversary of my middle son's death, I am amazed that God would bring this across my news feed. He really does have a reason for everything. All we need is faith! A very close friend of mine instilled a love for ASL in me in the 6th grade. In 2020, God prompted me to start teaching it to my grandchildren. Im still learning (and re-learning) it myself. As a Christian, I was saddened to see that only 2-3% of deaf even know the redeeming story of our Savior's love. I will be sharing this and watching CODA very soon. God bless you & yours, Troy! And thank you for sharing your story!! 👑✝️❤️🌎👨‍👩‍👧‍👧🐑☝🏼💪🏾⚓️🪨⛰️🏰🛡🗡📖🙏🏻🛐🎶🙌🏼🧂🕯💧🔥🕊🤟

[@MarleneHen]

Hey, Troy! If you read these comments, Tom and Jerry was my favorite too! Eventually it went off the network, and I was very sad. Eventually closed captioning started to pick up, but I have memories of shows my family watched that I didn't watch because they weren't captioned and I didn't understand what was going on. Anyway, we have that in common. I was born in '76. Closed captioning was life changing.

[@markleatherman9621]

Beautiful work Sean, John, Justin, Troy and the whole crew! Truly an incredible film and a beautiful way to tell the story. Thank you and can't wait to see what you cook up next!

[@FloridaWickliff]

Wow wow wow , what a heartwarming story..

[@G_FactorX]

Beautiful.

[@fieryirishsparkle3878]

I love it when this cute girl signed, "LOL" in 1970's era!!! I have to admit it made me chuckle!!! A very beautiful story about your dad, Troy. Thank you for sharing!!!

[@kayleneknight306]

So beautiful your Dad do police flash light he s equal with others brother. Amazing. 👍

[@HelloFa1th]

WOW ! touching my heart with Inspired story... keep going and chase your dream.

[@victorianouri3411]

Good thing God made your dad loves you as deaf . My foster mom will learn asl. Yes, I did grad college my foster mom adopted me .. exactly how you felt blessing. Spread the word very rare parent learn asl in love and god

[@lunarfixation]

So beautiful, thank you~ 🕊

[@lilitalia777]

Beautiful documentary. When his dad said, "I still believe in God." 😭

[@sherryclinton9854]

Beautiful ! What a wonderful father !❤

[@katiedc8239]

I am so moved by this man's love for his father and the way his father raised him and their faith in God. Beautiful story, thank you so much. 💖

[@celticforde88]

It is extremely beautiful tribute and amazing video! Reminds me of my own best dad in my life what he taught me.

[@candyalvarez6730]

Dang! Hit me! As a retired law enforcement officer seeing his father was one and made it to Chief also spoke volumes, I am sure he touched many, many lives....but what a beautiful story and how he was the true essence of fatherhood. Thank you for sharing this.

[@jeffstokes936]

Thank you brother for your life story it really show us what true love feel like look like smell like taste like and yes even sounds like to people that have there hearing. Thank God for the sounds your making

[@scottdowney4103]

Illustrates what great film making can do to uplift the human spirit and make the world a truly better place. Just great. A true gem of film. Forwarding it everywhere.

[@caggiano20071]

Troy kotsur very lucky to have his wonderful mother and father treat their deaf son like everyone but my hearing parents and my sister mistreat me different ❤😢 I love your film

[@lisamarieversaci]

So sorry to hear about your situation. I hope you get support and love.

[@DadSavesAmerica]

We're praying for you and your family so that they will open their hearts to see your dignity. You will make it. You will find your path to happiness. God has given you challenges because he knows that you're up to it and will use this experience to help other people. Never forget that.

[@nosylilfuker]

Marvelously!

[@marilynsnider8183]

Thanks, Troy for being who you are.

[@LandPatents]

Thank you! I am inspired by your story. :)

[@cherylpup8395]

I'm not deaf but i had issues as we all do. My parents both did nothing but love and encourage all of their children. I credit them for giving me the courage to purse all my ," sparks".Your father seemed to be a star in helping you find your spark...God is always there walking alongside as we seek. Beautiful video...thanks for the gift!

[@IdealLiving33]

Thank you So much for sharing this.. on Troy Kotsur and His Father Len Kotsur...It touched me deeply...😢

[@Deafgal88]

This is beautiful ❤ it made me cry…. as a deaf woman growing up in the 70s and 80s with 10 siblings, my father would remind me “no matter what I can do it” this story reminds me of my dad and him believing in me…hugs to you Troy! Beautiful documentary honoring your dad 🤟🏼 ❤

[@SH-pg9qw]

It's so beautiful Troy and your dad has been reminding me of my father, he does the same way he taught me so much before he got killed from work in June 1986 while I was 21 yrs old. That's true God has a reason for all of us in this world and give a lot of love. 🤟🏻

[@debbieglasco8516]

A wonderful movie. Touches the heart and inspires our souls! Thank you Troy for sharing your story. ❤

[@louise1345ann]

I loved CODA & loved this man's memories of his exceptional Dad. So moving. Can't put into words.

[@d2inaz]

Can't wait to watch this. From the comments it's a beautiful tribute to his Dad. We need more of this kind of content, positive and loving. Bravo Troy. ❤️🙏

[@marilynhunter8015]

It brought me chills from his story of his beloved Dad! It also brought me my memories of my late Dad as both of us always did things together! Cherish the memories!

[@tovemichau4887]

Questo è un video così fantastico! Adoro il fatto stesso che sia un poliziotto duro e meraviglioso che ha protetto la sua comunità, ma ha anche amato suo figlio e gli ha mostrato che lo faceva con le sue azioni. Grazie mille per aver condiviso questa clip! Per me è stato un regalo di Natale meraviglioso! Buone Feste, Amici!!

[@coalitionofchristianinterp9463]

Oh, my heart! A beautiful documentary. So proud to be the mother of a deaf adult…your father’s commitment to sign language and to inspire his deaf son is a goal that all hearing parents of deaf children should have. 🤟🏽

[@reneebaldwin4698]

Beautiful and heartwarming ❤Congratulations on your perseverance and success, and praise God for fathers like yours (and mine) ❤️🙏💕🙌🏼

[@SiuLong76]

Il video mi ha toccato in fondo al cuore!

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Grazie mille, amico mio!

[@aelder5057]

This was so beautiful.

[@philipians4777]

So touching- beautiful.

[@SM-hy4np]

Thank you for taking the time to make and share one of maybe the best stories ever.

[@kermitinmountain6371]

Troy, Very emotional narrative story. Thank you.

[@Brassie25]

Beautiful, simply beautiful.

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Thank you very much!

[@monroemann]

Thank you all for this touching story. It’s put a smile of hope on my face.

[@stevemacca]

Loved this. I'm a CODA from Australia and a dad of 4 and this film touched me deeply. I'm a big fan of Troy not only because of his acting ability but his perspective on life and the way he has honoured his father right throughout. Takes a big person to honour your parents in your wins and not simply take on the win yourself .... our parents make us who we are ... and I'm thankful for the up bringing I had in a deaf home.

[@barbiegomez-b3z]

Heartfelt Thank God for creating Troy for His glory and purpose. God gave Troy a talented gift. Pursue your ambitions. Have a blessed journey

[@DadSavesAmerica]

He’s an incredible man and gift.

[@jaimegleason9763]

I wish I could sign how I feel, because words can't express it.

[@lisamarieversaci]

Beautiful!

[@ettacummings3773]

God is Good❣️

[@DadSavesAmerica]

YES

[@hannaheversn]

It just so beautiful and make me cry! Love it so much!❤️❤️❤️

[@kathleenbrockway1954]

This is truly touching my heart as I am culturally Deaf as well. My parents pushed me for my best. They signed to communicate. Even if my dad was a busy man, a Colonel in the US Army, he put my Deaf education first. Your movie gave me flashback filled with memories. Thank you, Troy for sharing! ❤

[@DadSavesAmerica]

This is wonderful to hear! The best gift we can give our kids and parents is the experience of capability. Knowing you CAN do it. Too many of our kids, especially who lack any impairments, are given the opposite lesson. That’s why we hope this film offers a universal message to everyone!

[@evelynpasqua6968]

It is a true heartwarming story.

[@reginapustelak5420]

What a true blessing to have such an amazing father. No wonder Troy is an incredible human being. Unfortunately majority of Deaf do not have the same experience. Thank you for making this as an anthem for them. I pray it impacts many hearts and minds

[@susanwest8239]

God bless him. I'm starting to cry.

[@djb3918]

I enjoyed watching your story ! Thank you.

[@shellymtisza4319]

beautiful video it is so good to have a memorty of ur dad.. i wish my dad would be like your father u know..

[@oluwakayodeonobiyi475]

So beautiful!

[@kashmiradesai4090]

This is beautiful family. Thank you for sharing it. You become to actor Coda. Good Luck.

[@eradigm]

That is a beautiful, touching story, Troy.

[@bevo65]

Powerful and touching. I’ll be thinking about this for a long time, and hoping that I can be half the dad Len Kotsur was. ❤

[@mr.jceniza]

Soooo inspiring! Thank you for sharing your story Troy, and for sharing your spark to the rest of the world 🙌🏻🤟🏼

[@kathleenruccione192]

Beautiful and powerful. Thank you!

[@lisastrohman8974]

This video brought up so many emotions in me. As a clinicaI psychologist I see many times how adult children focus on the failings of their parent. What an amazingly optimistic and inspiring story that does the exact opposite and highlights the good in the world when we have parents that believe in us.

[@reginapustelak5420]

So many Deaf adults have mental health issues and it starts in their childhood. Breaks my heart daily but do what I can to offer hope

[@refinedtechnologies6321]

This is such an important documentary as we have so much to learn from Troy's perseverance and success and the importance of unwavering support and love from family and friends. We are all made in God's image and while we can't understand so much of what we experience here on earth, we can surely push on to positively influence others as best we can. Thanks @DadSavesAmerica!

[@Lynnda86]

You said it perfectly!! God bless!

[@Crazylaowai]

Truly powerful.

[@ILoveMyHusband3-u9c]

I cannot wait to watch this!

[@AlejandraSedano-iw1ww]

My family just stumbled upon this video a few hours ago. We've never seen this actor before or his work, but this little video captured our attention, touched our heart, and made us cry. God bless all encouraging fathers- theyre so needed in our hurting world. A child's world changed, a world can change. Blessings!

[@lisamarieversaci]

If you haven’t watched CODA yet, it’s a must-see!

[@loupotter4319]

Thank you, everyone involved in this wonder tribute. 🤟

[@BoomerActual]

❤ Amazing.

[@pymarmer1234]

Troy Kotsur, thank you for the deeply profound expression of humanity and love. Producers and storytellers, consider the profound positive impact of telling stories of love-light and inspiration like this one. Please more.

[@Lemang01]

What a life affirming story. Thank you for sharing it.

[@paulanstett9066]

This was a very touching story. Thank you for sharing this personal journey with your father. By the way I loved Tom and Jerry cartoons too!

[@carinagrennan129]

WOW!!!

[@paigeshores7098]

That was amazing. Bawled my eyes out.

[@Lynnda86]

Same!! 😭😭😭

[@taraelmegreen5527]

Did u see how his face lit up as he began to speak abt his father??❤❤❤❤

[@DadSavesAmerica]

So incredible! His face RADIATES LOVE.

[@johnpaulphillips6873]

Well done! I was lucky like Troy to have both parents that signed, and I have zero doubts that made a huge impact upon me, my younger deaf sister and also my 3 hearing sibs! I went to the same deaf school as Troy, albeit a year older, so I'm sure my parents knew his parents back then! It is SOOOO important for young children to acquire language skills early on, so I am so glad Troy Kotsur is lending his support to the LEAD-K effort! I'm sure that Troy's parents are prouder of what Troy has done since his win!

[@CarolineAMcD]

This was really beautiful, thank you

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Hi Caroline! We've chosen your comment to win some Dad Saves America merch, so shoot us an email at the address in our channel profile ([e-mail]) or send us a message @DadSavesAmerica on Instagram and we can work out the details!

[@MarleneHen]

Please get rid of the captioning when Troy is signing. It often covers up the subtitles. I'd recommend, just once, adding text names under Marlee Matlin and Deanne Bray, his wife, at the ceremony. Both are well known in their own right, but not everyone would recognize them. Very well done. I considered not watching it, but I'm glad I did. Troy, don't ever lose your faith in God! Parents, reflect on your own legacy. What kind of parent do you want to be remembered as? 🤟🤟🤟🤟👏👏👏👏

[@Lynnda86]

Amen Amen Amen 🙏🏻❤🤟

[@lisamarieversaci]

I think you can turn off subtitles.

[@MarleneHen]

@@lisamarieversaci I need the subtitles for the non-signing parts.

[@hyper3d]

That was beautiful ❤

[@ceceliataylor4477]

I loved ur story. I wish I have intelligent alike you. I attached ur sign language..

[@Eileen139]

thank you for sharing

[@seancreports]

Very well made. Loved the story.

[@davidgriffiniii]

I am deaf too u make me cry because my dad passed away i was 6 yrs old 😢

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Our hearts are with you!

[@ceceliataylor4477]

U made me cry

[@tonilynnvanbramer4435]

Love this thank you for sharing

[@JSL177]

I have not cried for 20 years. The end of this film made me weep. Why are fathers not valued in this day and age? I just don’t get it….:If my children think of me like the guy in this movie did of his dad, I have succeeded in life……

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Wow, my friend. I'm moved that we could connect with you like this. Thank you for sharing.

[@alhelilil]

❤️❤️❤️

[@daloldal7436]

Jesus Christ loves you , Troy!!!!!He is your Saviour to Heaven, and He is your father's Savior! Believe Jesus!!!!!

[@ceceliataylor4477]

I missed watch coda.hope to see it someday

[@DadSavesAmerica]

It's wonderful. My wife and I have watched it 4 times.

[@Arieta4hearts]

😢😢😢🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 ❤❤❤❤❤

[@jessicaa9364]

🩷

[@flyingdoritos8344]

*What's with the 'Jazz Hands' --- virtue signalling nonsense ?* Deaf people - like me are deaf -- NOT BLIND --- we understand what clapping hands signify. We don't need a special signal to understand that something is being celebrated by a person or group. *Clapping hands - vibrate the air. I can feel the vibrations on my skin - so please - drop the Jazz hands -- it's patronizing*

[@deliamak]

When you are on a stage, you may not be able to see clapping hands there. A huge, bright spotlight blinds you while your audience is clapping in the dark. Also, you would be busy acting without feeling vibrations unless there is a gong or drum to hit on. When I was on a stage, I couldn't see nor feel anything out there at all.

[@RustyWheels1964]

I like seeing in both ways. But, yes, when we are far away from somewhere where you might not hear or feel the applauding/applause, so the best way where WE CAN SEE WITH HAND 🖐 UP IN THE AIR!

[@marleneanderson7483]

When Mr. Kotsur gave the commencement speech at UNCSA he taught everyone to shake their hands, so I’d say he prefers it. When you are on stage I will clap for you, as you wish.

[@sandorrozsa2311]

you all crying here meanwhile you have people around you with similar or even much worse stories than this and you don't give a sh*t...

[@DadSavesAmerica]

Consider dialing back the judgement of fellow strangers just for peacefully showing emotion. Crying at a beautiful story doesn’t take anything away from anyone.

[@CricketBaker-n8p]

Q

[@Bud88883]

ANOTHER SCAMMER!!! 👎👎👎👎