Prince Estate shuts down controversial Netflix documentary, plans its own exclusive film
Photo: AFP
Netflix has officially canceled its six-part docuseries about Prince after reaching an agreement with the late musician’s estate. The estate will now produce its own documentary featuring never-before-seen content from Prince’s archives, forcing the streamer to pull the project directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Ezra Edelman.
In a joint statement, Netflix and the estate confirmed the decision, stating, “The Prince Estate and Netflix have come to a mutual agreement that will allow the estate to develop and produce a new documentary featuring exclusive content from Prince’s archive. As a result, the Netflix documentary will not be released.”
The Prince Estate celebrated the move on X (formerly Twitter), posting “The vault has been freed,” alongside a quote from Prince: “Despite everything, no one can dictate who you are to other people.” The post also featured a clip set to his 1982 song Free, reinforcing the estate’s message of artistic control.
The Vault Has Been Freed. #FREE pic.twitter.com/uvAbzEBbTc
Edelman’s documentary was in production for nearly five years, but the estate—under new representation—blocked its release despite previously granting access to Prince’s archives. While Netflix and Edelman retained final cut, the estate had the right to review the film for factual accuracy, ultimately leading to its cancellation.
Edelman’s nine-hour documentary reportedly included allegations of physical and emotional abuse, with former girlfriend Jill Jones claiming Prince once punched her and former bandmates discussing his views on sexuality and religion. The estate demanded edits, but Edelman refused to remove key moments, arguing they were crucial to the film’s integrity.
With the estate now taking full control of Prince’s story, fans can expect a new documentary shaped by those closest to his legacy.