Netflix’s latest installment of its Untold documentary series dives into the bizarre, controversial rise of Brian Johnson, better known as the Liver King.
Premiering May 13, Untold: The Liver King covers Johnson’s viral fame, steroid scandal, and efforts to reclaim his public image after a dramatic fall from grace.
Brian Johnson built an online empire by advocating a raw organ-based diet, intense fitness routines, and his “nine ancestral tenets.” With a persona blending caveman theatrics and viral marketing, he amassed over six million followers and a supplement brand reportedly generating $100 million annually. He repeatedly claimed to be “100% natural”—until 2022, when leaked emails exposed his $11,000-a-month steroid and HGH regimen.
Director Joe Pearlman’s documentary offers a 70-minute exploration of Johnson’s journey from self-proclaimed underdog to disgraced health influencer. Despite admitting to using performance-enhancing drugs, Johnson leans into redemption, portraying himself as a flawed but passionate advocate for men's mental health and ancestral living.
Critics argue Untold pulls its punches, failing to deeply interrogate the danger of Johnson’s misinformation. While he expresses regret—stating, “I want the world to know I was wrong”—Pearlman says the film aims to serve as a cautionary tale rather than a takedown.
The documentary concludes with Johnson planning to launch 302 retreats promoting his ancestral lifestyle, raising concerns about the ongoing influence of unregulated wellness figures online.
Johnson’s story underscores the blurred lines between wellness, performance, and profit in the age of social media—a modern myth built on testicles, testosterone, and viral soundbites.
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