BREAKING NEWS: Netflix Releases a highly anticipated documentary about Metallica’s legend James Hetfield. Slated for release on the…

BREAKING NEWS: Netflix Releases Highly Anticipated Documentary on Metallica Legend James Hetfield

July 8, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA — Netflix has officially released its long-awaited documentary chronicling the life and legacy of James Hetfield, frontman of the legendary heavy metal band Metallica. Titled “Hetfield: Forged by Fire”, the documentary hit the streaming platform worldwide at midnight and is already generating massive buzz among fans and critics alike.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Liz Garbus, the two-hour feature offers an unflinching look at Hetfield’s journey from a troubled childhood in Downey, California, to becoming one of the most influential figures in rock history. The documentary blends rare archival footage, personal home videos, and exclusive interviews with Hetfield, his bandmates Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo, as well as music icons like Dave Grohl, Ozzy Osbourne, and Slash.

“James Hetfield’s story is one of pain, perseverance, and powerful transformation,” said Garbus in a statement. “He’s not just the voice of Metallica — he’s the heart of it. This documentary aims to show the man behind the riffs.”

“Hetfield: Forged by Fire” explores deeply personal aspects of Hetfield’s life, including his battles with addiction, his 2019 rehab stint, and his ongoing journey through sobriety. The film also captures behind-the-scenes moments from Metallica’s most iconic tours and albums, offering a raw and emotional portrait of a man who helped shape a genre.

Social media erupted with praise shortly after the release, with hashtags like #HetfieldDoc and #ForgedByFire trending across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Metallica fans are hailing the documentary as “one of the most honest portrayals of a rock legend ever filmed.”

This release marks a significant moment for Netflix, which has been expanding its portfolio of music-focused documentaries. Following hits like Miss Americana (Taylor Swift) and The Defiant Ones (Dr. Dre & Jimmy Iovine), Hetfield: Forged by Fire looks poised to become another critical and commercial success.

As Metallica gears up for their 2025 European tour later this summer, the documentary is expected to reignite global interest in the band’s storied legacy — and in Hetfield’s enduring influence as both a musician and a survivor.

“Hetfield: Forged by Fire” is now streaming exclusively on Netflix.