In an announcement that has electrified the sports and entertainment world, Netflix has confirmed the release of “The Underdog,” a deeply personal and long-awaited documentary chronicling the life, career, and legacy of Seattle Mariners legend Ken Griffey Jr.
The film is slated for global release on December 10, 2025, and will be available to stream in over 190 countries.
The Story of “The Kid” — As You’ve Never Seen Him Before
Few athletes have captured the imagination of a generation like Ken Griffey Jr. With his smooth left-handed swing, trademark backward cap, and joy for the game, Griffey became the face of baseball in the 1990s — and the heart of the Seattle Mariners franchise.
Now, for the first time, his story will be told in full: from child prodigy to Hall of Famer, from injury battles to iconic moments, and from underdog beginnings to Mariners co-owner — a role he officially took on earlier this year.
“This isn’t just about baseball,” says director Tanya Blake, known for her award-winning sports documentaries. “It’s about identity, pressure, and becoming a symbol — even when you didn’t ask to be one.”
What to Expect in “The Underdog”
The documentary will feature:
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Rare archival footage from Griffey’s childhood, early MLB days, and legendary moments in Seattle and Cincinnati
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Candid interviews with Griffey, his father Ken Griffey Sr., former teammates, opponents, and close friends
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Stories behind iconic moments, including his 1995 ALDS walk-off run, 600th home run, and induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame
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Personal reflections on being a Black superstar in a predominantly white sport, and how that shaped his journey
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A behind-the-scenes look at his emotional return as Mariners co-owner in 2025
Netflix describes the film as “a portrait of greatness built not on ego, but resilience — the story of a boy who never lost his love for the game.”
Griffey Speaks: “I’ve Always Been an Underdog”
In a short teaser clip released with the announcement, Griffey is seen walking through an empty T-Mobile Park, saying:
“People see the highlights. The swing. The smile. But I always felt like an underdog — I just never stopped swinging.”
The statement has already sparked emotional reactions from fans and former players, including Ichiro Suzuki, Alex Rodriguez, and Ken Griffey Sr., who also appear in the film.
A City Reacts: Seattle Celebrates Its Hero
Across Seattle, news of the documentary’s release was met with overwhelming excitement and pride:
“Griffey is Seattle. Can’t wait for the world to see what he means to us.”
“This is more than a documentary — it’s a love letter to our childhood.”
“The Kid never left. Now the world gets to know him like we do.”
Even the Mariners organization released a statement calling the film “a celebration of a legend who changed the game — and our city — forever.”
Save the Date: December 10, 2025
With a legacy that transcends statistics, Ken Griffey Jr.’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and pure love for the game. And with “The Underdog,” Netflix is set to deliver one of the most emotional and powerful sports documentaries in recent memory.
He changed the game. He inspired a generation. Now, it’s time to tell his story.
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