Netflix Releases Highly Anticipated Documentary on Broncos Star Reece Walsh, Titled “THE DARK HORSE” — Set to Premiere July 25
Brisbane, Australia – July 3, 2025
In a major announcement that has already captured the attention of sports fans and streaming audiences around the world, Netflix is set to release one of its most anticipated sports documentaries of the year: “THE DARK HORSE”, a
powerful and intimate portrait of Brisbane Broncos superstar fullback Reece Walsh. The documentary will premiere globally on July 25, offering a never-before-seen look into the life, struggles, and rise of one of the National Rugby League’s brightest young stars.
Known for his electric speed, charisma, and fearless playing style, Reece Walsh has rapidly emerged as not just a fan favorite, but a symbol of the next generation of Australian rugby league greatness. At just 22 years old, Walsh has already shouldered the weight of expectations, personal setbacks, and media scrutiny — and still managed to dazzle fans and critics alike.
Now, in “THE DARK HORSE”, Netflix pulls back the curtain on his remarkable journey.
A Story Beyond the Spotlight
Directed by acclaimed Australian filmmaker Sam Coulson and produced by sports documentary powerhouse Iconic Films, “THE DARK HORSE” dives into Walsh’s personal and professional life with raw authenticity. The documentary spans over 18 months of filming, beginning in early 2023 and following him through club seasons, State of Origin duties, and moments away from the spotlight with his family and inner circle.
While Walsh’s on-field highlights are breathtaking — sideline breaks, last-minute tries, and clutch plays — the heart of the documentary lies in the off-field moments. Viewers will witness the fullback confront injuries, mental health challenges, public controversies, and the pressures that come with being branded “the future” of rugby league at such a young age.
“Reece Walsh is more than just a highlight reel,” said director Sam Coulson. “This film captures a complex, courageous, and evolving young man who is learning to navigate fame, expectation, and responsibility — all while playing one of the toughest sports in the world.”
From Prodigy to Powerhouse
Walsh’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Originally signed by the New Zealand Warriors, he made a mid-season switch to the Brisbane Broncos, where he has since flourished into a marquee player. His debut in the Queensland State of Origin side at just 20 years old made headlines, and his passionate, fearless play quickly earned him comparisons to some of the game’s greats.
But with great talent comes great scrutiny.
In 2023, Walsh was suspended for misconduct — a moment the documentary does not shy away from. Rather than gloss over the incident, “THE DARK HORSE” uses it as a pivotal moment in the narrative, examining how Walsh responded to the setback, what it taught him, and how it reshaped his perspective.
“People make mistakes. What matters is how you respond,” Walsh says in one emotional scene from the film. “I want people to see that I’m human — that I’m learning every day. I love the game, I love my daughter, and I want to be better in every way.”
Behind the Cameras and the Jersey
The documentary also features exclusive interviews with coaches, teammates, family members, and even critics. Broncos coach Kevin Walters, Maroons legend Billy Slater, and current stars like Payne Haas and Adam Reynolds all share candid perspectives on what makes Walsh such a unique force in the game.
Fans will also meet the people closest to him — including his mother, his siblings, and his daughter Leila, who remains a guiding light in his life and is featured prominently throughout the film.
Netflix says the documentary is about more than rugby.
“This is a story about growth, vulnerability, and identity,” said executive producer Hannah Ford. “It’s about a young man learning who he is in the midst of extraordinary pressure. And in many ways, it’s a universal story — even if it plays out on a very public stage.”
Global Anticipation
Since the teaser trailer dropped on Netflix’s official platforms last week, anticipation has been soaring. Social media platforms are already abuzz with clips of Walsh breaking down in tears during a private moment at home, as well as scenes of intense training and locker room camaraderie.
Sports pundits have called “THE DARK HORSE” one of the most ambitious rugby league documentaries ever attempted, and a milestone for the genre on streaming platforms.
With the global premiere scheduled for July 25, fans worldwide will be able to stream the documentary exclusively on Netflix.
For Reece Walsh, it’s another defining moment — not just in his career, but in his life.
“It’s not about being perfect,” he says in the final scene of the trailer. “It’s about being real. And this is me.”
Coming July 25 to Netflix.
“THE DARK HORSE” — The Story of Reece Walsh.
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