Netflix Cancels Controversial Prince Documentary, Estate Is Now Free To Create New Project

Netflix has announced the cancellation of the release of a planned six-part Prince documentary directed by Ezra Edelman. The streaming service reached a mutual agreement with the Prince Estate allowing the estate to produce a new film using exclusive content from Prince’s archive. This decision stems from Prince’s estate expressing concerns over inaccuracies and sensationalized portrayals in the initial cut of the documentary, prompting them to seek a new direction. Prince’s official X account shared a post on Thursday (February 6) celebrating the announcement, which featured a quote from Prince, “Despite everything, no one can dictate who you are to other people,” and the caption, “The Vault Has Been Freed. #FREE.” Edelman, known for directing the Academy Award-winning documentary, O.J.: Made in America, had spent over four years on the project, pouring over Prince’s extensive archives while eventually creating a nine-hour film instead of the initially agreed-upon six hours. (Variety)