Netflix’s latest documentary, ***Ronnie Coleman: The King***, chronicles the extraordinary ascent and recent hardships of the eight‑time Mr Olympia, widely known as “The King” of bodybuilding. Born in Louisiana in 1964, Coleman dominated the bodybuilding world from 1998 to 2005, tying the record for most Mr Olympia wins and performing jaw‑dropping feats like 800‑lb squats and deadlifts.
Directed by Vlad Yudin and initially released by Generation Iron, the film is now available globally on Netflix ([muscleandfitness.com][1]). It offers an intimate exploration of both his peak years and the lasting physical toll of his ambition.
Through candid interviews with Coleman, family, and peers like Kevin Levrone and Brian Dobson, the documentary explores how his relentless training—driven by the ethos of “Yeah, buddy!” and “Light weight, baby!”—led to triumphs but also catastrophic injuries. Coleman faces chronic pain, nerve damage, and walking impairments following multiple spinal fusions, hip replacements, and failed surgeries
The film doesn’t shy away from his daily reality: scenes depict him struggling with crutches and walker use at home, barely keeping up with young children. He openly describes enduring “24/7” intense pain, managed with high-strength oxycodone—sometimes four or five 30 mg pills a day ([menshealth.com][3]). One surgery complication even caused a rod to loosen right after closing, leading to new procedures.
Despite these challenges—and the possibility he may never walk unaided—Coleman refuses to quit. The documentary shows him at the gym, performing modified workouts to preserve muscle memory, inspired by medical advice emphasizing the importance of movement.
Critics and fans have praised the film’s unflinching portrayal of bodybuilding’s highs and lows. Described as “heartbreaking” and capable of bringing viewers to tears, it stands as both a tribute to human resilience and a cautionary tale of what greatness can demand.
