In a move that has baseball fans and documentary enthusiasts buzzing, Netflix has officially released its latest original feature, “The Underdog,” a powerful and deeply humanizing documentary centered around Boston Red Sox icon and baseball legend Ted Williams. The film, long in the works and shrouded in anticipation, is now available for streaming worldwide.
Known as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, Ted Williams was much more than a sportsman. “The Underdog” dives headfirst into his complex persona—his triumphs on the field, his turbulent relationship with the media, his military service, and the lasting impact he had on American culture and the sport itself.
A Deeply Personal Portrait of a Baseball Legend
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Sarah Compton (“Legends of the Game,” “The Last Out”), the 90-minute documentary pulls from never-before-seen footage, personal letters, interviews with family members, teammates, historians, and exclusive MLB archives to paint a layered portrait of Williams’ life. What emerges is not just a story about baseball, but a story about resilience, identity, and legacy.
“We didn’t want to make just another sports doc,” Compton said in a statement. “Ted Williams was an icon, yes, but he was also a deeply misunderstood man. He was fiercely private, emotional, often mischaracterized, and remarkably ahead of his time. This film gives him the nuance he deserves.”
More Than a Baseball Story
Ted Williams played his entire 19-year MLB career with the Boston Red Sox, achieving legendary status with feats such as being the last player to hit over .400 in a season (.406 in 1941)—a record that still stands today. But what many don’t know, and what “The Underdog” sheds light on, is the extent of Williams’ off-field contributions and struggles.
The documentary chronicles his time as a fighter pilot in both World War II and the Korean War, sacrificing peak playing years to serve his country. It also explores his advocacy for racial integration in baseball and his own experience grappling with his Mexican-American heritage—something he largely kept private during his career.
“We wanted to show Ted as a man who carried multiple burdens quietly,” said executive producer Mike Langford. “He lived during a time when masculinity meant never showing vulnerability. And yet, he was someone who clearly felt deeply.”
Star-Studded Commentary and Emotional Reactions
“The Underdog” features appearances from a mix of baseball greats and cultural commentators, including David Ortiz, Joe Torre, Bob Costas, and Ken Burns. Even current Red Sox stars like Rafael Devers and Masataka Yoshida appear, reflecting on the continued influence Williams has on the organization and younger generations of players.
Critics are already hailing the film as a potential awards contender. Early viewers have praised it for its emotional depth, journalistic integrity, and cinematic storytelling. Sports Illustrated called it “a masterclass in sports documentary filmmaking,” while Variety described it as “a deeply moving tribute to one of the most enigmatic figures in baseball.”
Ted Williams’ Legacy Reexamined
The release of “The Underdog” comes at a time when sports documentaries have seen a significant rise in popularity, thanks to series like “The Last Dance” and “Beckham.” Yet what sets this documentary apart is its unapologetic look at the emotional complexities of its subject.
Netflix has timed the release just ahead of the MLB Hall of Fame anniversary and the Red Sox’s “Ted Williams Day” at Fenway Park next month, ensuring that conversation around the film—and Williams himself—will continue well into the baseball season.
Fans and newcomers alike can stream “The Underdog” now on Netflix.