It’s Official: Netflix and University of Alabama Team Up for Groundbreaking Nick Saban Documentary
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – May 22, 2025 — In a landmark collaboration that is already generating national buzz, Netflix has officially partnered with the University of Alabama to produce a comprehensive documentary chronicling the life and legendary coaching career of Nick Saban — widely regarded as one of the greatest college football coaches of all time.
The multi-part documentary series, which is expected to debut in late 2025, will offer an unprecedented inside look into the journey of the man who turned Alabama football into a modern dynasty. From his humble beginnings in Fairmont, West Virginia, to his seven national championships and countless SEC titles, the film promises to capture not only Saban’s unparalleled accomplishments on the field, but also the leadership, discipline, and philosophy that shaped a generation of athletes.
Titled SABAN, the series will be executive produced by Netflix in conjunction with Alabama’s athletic department and a team of Emmy-winning documentary filmmakers. According to a joint statement released Thursday morning, the documentary will include exclusive interviews with Saban himself, as well as family members, former players, assistant coaches, colleagues, and rivals. It will also feature never-before-seen footage from team meetings, practices, locker rooms, and championship runs.
“This is more than just a football story,” said Netflix VP of Unscripted and Documentary Series, Brandon Riegg. “It’s the story of a leader, a teacher, and a relentless competitor who transformed not just a program, but an entire sport. We’re honored to bring Coach Saban’s journey to life for audiences around the world.”
Saban, who retired from coaching in early 2024 after 17 seasons at Alabama, expressed his gratitude and optimism about the project.
“I’ve always believed that success is a process, and I’m proud of the process we built at Alabama,” Saban said in a statement. “This documentary is a chance to reflect on the incredible people I’ve worked with and the lessons I’ve learned. I hope it gives fans a deeper understanding of what it takes to build something special — not just in football, but in life.”
University of Alabama President Dr. Stuart R. Bell called the collaboration a “historic opportunity” to honor Saban’s lasting legacy and showcase the university’s commitment to excellence. “Coach Saban not only brought championships to Tuscaloosa, he brought pride, purpose, and leadership to our campus and community,” Bell said. “This documentary will preserve and celebrate that legacy for generations.”
Filming is already underway, with the production crew granted rare access to university archives, Bryant-Denny Stadium, and even Saban’s famed “Fourth Quarter Program” — the intensive training and character development model he implemented to build mental toughness and discipline.
In addition to highlighting his time at Alabama, the series will explore pivotal moments from Saban’s career at Michigan State, LSU, and his brief tenure in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins. It will also examine his impact on the lives of his players, many of whom went on to successful careers in the NFL and beyond.
With Netflix’s global platform and Alabama’s storied football tradition, SABAN is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated sports documentaries in recent memory.
The legacy of Nick Saban, it seems, is only just beginning to be fully told.
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