NEW ERA BEGIN: Netflix Set to Release Documentary Focusing on Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry — A Deep Dive Into the Lives of Two Snooker Legends
In a move that promises to ignite both nostalgia and admiration among snooker fans worldwide, Netflix is preparing to release a groundbreaking documentary that delves into the lives and legacies of two of the sport’s most iconic figures — Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry. Titled “Cue the Legends”, the documentary will explore the contrasting journeys, fierce rivalries, and undeniable brilliance of the two snooker giants who have shaped the modern era of the game.
A Rivalry for the Ages
Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry — two names that resonate with dominance, artistry, and the relentless pursuit of greatness — are central pillars in snooker’s rich history. Hendry, the prodigy from Scotland, took the 1990s by storm, winning seven World Championship titles and setting a new standard for attacking play. O’Sullivan, the mercurial genius from England, burst onto the scene with breathtaking talent and an unpredictable temperament, later rewriting the record books and transcending the sport with his flair.
The documentary captures the essence of their rivalry: not just a battle of cues, but a clash of philosophies. Hendry, clinical and composed, was the machine who perfected the sport’s ruthless efficiency. O’Sullivan, on the other hand, represented chaos and creativity, capable of making the impossible look effortless. Together, their careers intersected at key moments, creating some of snooker’s most unforgettable matches and narratives.
Beyond the Baize
While their exploits on the table are legendary, “Cue the Legends” aims to look beyond the spotlight. Through rare footage, candid interviews, and behind-the-scenes access, the documentary offers an intimate portrait of both men — their upbringing, struggles, sacrifices, and what drove them to the top.
For Hendry, viewers will gain insight into the pressure of being a teenage sensation, the mental toll of maintaining dominance, and his emotional decision to retire — only to make a surprise return years later. For O’Sullivan, the story is more volatile: dealing with personal demons, navigating a complex relationship with fame, and ultimately evolving into a six-time world champion and global ambassador for the game.
Producers promise never-before-seen footage from their early days, reflections from family members, coaches, rivals, and commentators, and a raw, honest look at how these legends see their own legacies — and each other.
The Making of a Sports Epic
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Daniel Gordon (The Trials of Oscar Pistorius, Hillsborough), the project is already being hailed as one of Netflix’s most ambitious sports documentaries to date. With high production values and an emotional narrative arc, the series seeks to do for snooker what The Last Dance did for basketball — elevate it into the realm of cultural storytelling.
Gordon, in a recent statement, said: “Ronnie and Stephen are not just snooker players — they are icons, rebels, warriors in their own way. This film is about two lives, two legacies, and how greatness takes many forms.”
Timing and Reception
The release, scheduled for late 2025, coincides with a surge in interest in cue sports globally, thanks in part to younger audiences discovering classic matches on streaming platforms and social media. Netflix’s involvement is seen as a major boost for snooker, potentially bringing a new generation into the fold.
Early buzz from critics and insiders who’ve seen preview cuts describe the documentary as “emotional,” “intensely human,” and “a must-watch, even for those who’ve never picked up a cue.” The balance between archive gold — including some of their greatest breaks — and reflective storytelling appears to strike the right chord.
A Legacy Cemented
As snooker continues to evolve, the stories of O’Sullivan and Hendry serve as both a benchmark and a blueprint. Their careers not only shaped how the game is played but how it is perceived — as a test of the mind, spirit, and soul.
With “Cue the Legends”, fans will get the chance to relive those magical moments, understand the minds behind the mastery, and witness how two very different men reached the same summit. Whether you grew up watching Hendry’s dominance or marveled at O’Sullivan’s genius, this documentary is more than a tribute — it’s a celebration of everything that makes snooker great.
The time has indeed come — the new era begins with a deep look back at the kings who defined it.
