A this promotional still, actor Barry Pepper transforms into NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt for ESPN’s made-for-TV biopic “3: The Dale Earnhardt Story.” The film, released in December 2004, chronicled Earnhardt’s rise from a rough-edged teenager to one of the most iconic and revered drivers in motorsports history.

A this promotional still, actor Barry Pepper fully embodies NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt for ESPN’s 2004 made-for-TV biopic, 3: The Dale Earnhardt Story. The film offers a gripping portrayal of Earnhardt’s journey—from a scrappy North Carolina teen with a dream, to a dominant force on the track and a symbol of resilience in American motorsports.

Barry Pepper, acclaimed for his role as Roger Maris in HBO’s 61, delivers a transformative performance, capturing not only Earnhardt’s physical likeness—complete with his trademark mustache and steely gaze—but also the intensity, ambition, and deep emotional complexity that made Earnhardt “The Intimidator.” Spanning over three decades of Earnhardt’s life, Pepper’s portrayal honors both the legend and the man behind the wheel.

3 doesn’t just chart a career—it tells a story of sacrifice, family, and an unrelenting pursuit of greatness. It explores Earnhardt’s turbulent relationship with his father, his struggle to prove himself in a competitive world, and his eventual rise to a seven-time NASCAR champion.

The film, named after Earnhardt’s famed No. 3 car, is a tribute to a driver who wasn’t just revered for his wins, but admired for his grit, fearlessness, and authenticity. With ESPN’s backing and a powerful script, the movie resonated with longtime fans and newcomers alike, preserving the legacy of a man who helped shape the sport’s identity.