In a major announcement that has sent waves of excitement through the hockey world and beyond, Netflix confirmed today that its highly anticipated documentary, “The UnderDog,” featuring legendary Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller, will officially premiere on September 24, 2025.The documentary, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sarah Daniels, chronicles the life, career, and legacy of Miller, one of the most beloved figures not only in Buffalo sports history but across the entire National Hockey League. The project has been in production for nearly two years and is already being hailed as one of Netflix’s most emotionally resonant sports documentaries to date.
A STORY OF RESILIENCE, PASSION, AND HEART
Netflix describes “The UnderDog” as “the inspiring story of a quiet, determined kid from East Lansing, Michigan, who defied all odds to become one of the NHL’s greatest goaltenders.” Through exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage, and heartfelt commentary from teammates, family members, coaches, and opponents, the documentary paints a portrait of a man who made perseverance and heart his calling card.
Miller’s story is one of grit, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Drafted 138th overall in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft by the Buffalo Sabres, few experts expected Miller to become the cornerstone of a franchise. Yet, through years of dedication and intense focus, he rose to prominence, leading the Sabres to some of their most successful seasons in franchise history, including back-to-back appearances in the Eastern Conference Finals (2006, 2007).
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EMOTIONAL MOMENTS
Netflix has promised fans unprecedented access to Miller’s private and professional life. “The UnderDog” includes footage from Miller’s college days at Michigan State University, his battles in the minor leagues, his emotional ascension to the NHL spotlight, and his historic performance at the 2010 Winter Olympics, where he led Team USA to a silver medal and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
Perhaps most movingly, the documentary delves into Miller’s off-ice endeavors, including his tireless work with children’s hospitals, his efforts to raise awareness for cancer research, and his leadership as a mentor for younger players throughout his 18-year professional career.
In one particularly poignant moment, Miller revisits the 2010 Olympic final against Canada — a crushing overtime loss that nonetheless solidified his status as a national hero. Speaking through tears, Miller shares his reflections on pride, loss, and the indelible mark that tournament left on his life.
STAR-STUDDED LINEUP OF INTERVIEWS
The film features interviews with a host of hockey legends and sports figures who crossed paths with Miller, including:
Lindy Ruff, Miller’s longtime coach in Buffalo
Martin Brodeur, Hall of Fame goaltender
Jack Eichel, former Buffalo Sabres captain
Chris Drury, former teammate and NHL executive
Sidney Crosby, whose overtime goal denied Miller Olympic gold
Paul Gaustad and Thomas Vanek, longtime Sabres teammates
Miller’s wife, actress Noureen DeWulf, offering a rare glimpse into their family life
Commentators and journalists such as Elliotte Friedman, Linda Cohn, and Rick Jeanneret (the legendary voice of the Sabres) also lend their voices to the narrative.
A CELEBRATION OF BUFFALO AND ITS SPORTS CULTURE
Beyond being a tribute to Miller, “The UnderDog” serves as a love letter to the city of Buffalo, New York. The documentary captures the emotional bond between the city’s passionate, blue-collar fanbase and their team — a relationship that Miller embodied throughout his career.
In interviews, fans recount how Miller’s on-ice heroics and off-ice humility gave Buffalo residents something to believe in during tough economic times. Footage of packed HSBC Arena (now KeyBank Center), raucous playoff games, and city-wide celebrations anchor the film in the city’s spirit.
Director Sarah Daniels noted, “Buffalo has always been about heart. Ryan Miller wasn’t just a player — he was hope. And this film is a celebration of that hope.”
NETFLIX’S CONTINUED PUSH INTO SPORTS DOCUMENTARIES
“The UnderDog” marks another major step for Netflix as it continues to expand its footprint in sports storytelling. Following the success of series like “Drive to Survive” (Formula 1), “Quarterback” (NFL), and “Untold” (various sports stories), the platform is betting that Miller’s underdog journey will resonate far beyond hockey’s traditional audience.
Netflix VP of Documentaries, Ethan Squires, said in a statement, “Ryan Miller’s story is universal. It’s about dreaming big, falling short, getting back up, and giving everything you have — for your team, your city, your family. We are honored to bring it to a global audience.”
EARLY BUZZ AND FAN REACTIONS
Following the announcement, social media exploded with excitement. Sabres fans, hockey enthusiasts, and even casual sports fans took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to express their anticipation. Within hours, “#TheUnderDog” and “Ryan Miller” were trending nationwide.
Former teammates also chimed in. Thomas Vanek tweeted, “Couldn’t be happier to see Ryan’s story told. One of the best teammates and humans I’ve ever known.”
Meanwhile, Jack Eichel, now with the Vegas Golden Knights, posted, “Buffalo was lucky to have him. Can’t wait to watch.”
Critics who viewed early screenings at private Netflix events praised the documentary for its emotional depth, stunning cinematography, and powerful soundtrack featuring artists such as The Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, and Bruce Springsteen.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ryan Miller’s career was never about flash or fame. It was about standing tall — sometimes literally — in the toughest moments. It was about blocking out doubt, pushing through pain, and representing his city and country with pride.
As “The UnderDog” prepares for its release, it’s clear that Netflix has captured more than just a hockey story. They have captured the enduring spirit of an underdog — a story that anyone who has ever chased a dream can understand.