In a move that is already generating considerable buzz across the hockey world and beyond, Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of “The Underdog,” a documentary chronicling the inspiring life and historic career of Ottawa Senators legend Daniel Alfredsson. Slated for release later this fall, the documentary promises to be an intimate and stirring portrait of one of the NHL’s most respected and beloved players—one whose influence on the sport continues to resonate in Canada, Sweden, and beyond.Daniel Alfredsson, affectionately known as “Alfie” by legions of Senators fans, began his NHL journey in 1994 when he was drafted 133rd overall in the sixth round by Ottawa—an overlooked pick at the time that would later become one of the greatest draft steals in NHL history. Few could have predicted that the quiet, determined Swede from Gothenburg would go on to define an NHL franchise, captaining the Senators for 13 seasons and earning a reputation for leadership, grit, and excellence on and off the ice.
“The Underdog” delves deeply into Alfredsson’s humble beginnings in Sweden, his early years learning the game with Frolunda HC, and his unexpected rise to NHL stardom. Featuring never-before-seen footage from his youth and early career, the film draws on exclusive interviews with Alfredsson himself, his family, former teammates, coaches, and rivals. Among those featured are former Senators teammates Chris Phillips, Jason Spezza, and Chris Neil, as well as NHL icons like Mats Sundin and Jarome Iginla.
NETFLIX GOES DEEPER THAN STATS AND SCORES
Unlike traditional sports documentaries that often lean heavily on stats and highlight reels, “The Underdog” aims for something richer and more emotional. Directed by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Sarah Polley, the documentary explores the psychological and cultural challenges Alfredsson faced as a young European athlete adjusting to the demands of professional hockey in North America. The film doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, including Alfredsson’s public advocacy for mental health awareness and his personal struggles balancing family life with the pressures of being a national sports figure.
“Daniel’s story is as much about resilience and character as it is about hockey,” Polley said in a statement. “He wasn’t the biggest or fastest player. But he had a quiet strength, a relentless work ethic, and a deep sense of loyalty—to his teammates, his family, and his adopted city of Ottawa.”
The documentary will also shed light on Alfredsson’s post-retirement efforts, including his work with the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and the “You Know Who I Am” campaign, which helped destigmatize mental illness in professional sports and beyond.
A LEGACY BUILT ON LOYALTY AND HEART
During his tenure with the Ottawa Senators, Alfredsson became the face of the franchise. He is the franchise’s all-time leader in goals (426), assists (682), and points (1,108), achievements made all the more remarkable given the team’s early struggles as an expansion franchise. He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as rookie of the year in 1996, was named an NHL All-Star seven times, and captained the team to its only Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2007.
Alfredsson’s departure from Ottawa in 2013 to finish his career with the Detroit Red Wings was painful for fans and the player alike—a complex chapter that the documentary reportedly covers with honesty and nuance. However, his return to Ottawa a year later to retire as a Senator and his emotional jersey retirement ceremony in 2016 helped cement his status as a legend and bridge any lingering divides.
IN HIS OWN WORDS
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of “The Underdog” is how much of the story is told in Alfredsson’s own voice. Now in his early fifties, Alfredsson offers deeply personal reflections on the highs and lows of his career, including his most memorable on-ice moments, the burden of wearing the “C,” and the bittersweet emotions of retirement.
In a preview clip released by Netflix, Alfredsson speaks candidly about imposter syndrome during his rookie season and how close he came to walking away from the NHL before his breakout year.
“I never thought I was the best player on the ice,” he says. “But I could outwork anyone. That’s how I survived. That’s how I led.”
RECOGNITION LONG OVERDUE
The timing of the documentary is also significant. Alfredsson’s recent induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2022 was seen by many as a long overdue recognition of his impact on the game. In addition to his NHL success, Alfredsson had an outstanding international career with Sweden, including a gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin and a silver medal in Sochi in 2014.
Fans and pundits alike have praised Alfredsson not only for his offensive skill and defensive reliability, but also for the way he carried himself throughout his career—with humility, intelligence, and a fierce commitment to the greater good of his teams and communities.
A LOVE LETTER TO OTTAWA
While Alfredsson’s story spans continents and decades, “The Underdog” is, at its core, a love letter to the city of Ottawa and the fans who supported him from day one. The documentary captures the symbiotic relationship between player and city, from outdoor charity events on the Rideau Canal to playoff wars at the Corel Centre and Canadian Tire Centre.
Local landmarks, media personalities, and long-time fans play a prominent role in painting the backdrop of Alfredsson’s career. Archival footage of his famous overtime goal against the Buffalo Sabres in the 2007 Eastern Conference Final and his heartfelt speech during his number retirement night evoke nostalgia and pride in equal measure.
A GLOBAL STORY WITH LOCAL ROOTS
Though “The Underdog” is being marketed to a global audience, its heart remains firmly rooted in the Canadian capital. With subtitles and dubbed versions being prepared in multiple languages—including Swedish—the film is expected to attract strong interest in Europe, particularly in Alfredsson’s homeland, where he remains a national hero.
Netflix has confirmed that the documentary will premiere globally on October 15, with a limited theatrical release in select Canadian cities ahead of its streaming debut. A special red-carpet premiere event is planned in Ottawa, where Alfredsson is expected to be joined by former teammates, civic leaders, and hundreds of loyal fans.
CONCLUSION: MORE THAN JUST A SPORTS DOCUMENTARY
At a time when sports documentaries are booming in popularity, “The Underdog” stands out not just for its subject, but for its sincerity and depth. It is not just the story of a hockey player—it is the story of perseverance, leadership, identity, and what it means to carry the hopes of a city on your shoulders.
Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan, a devoted Ottawa Senators supporter, or someone who simply appreciates stories of human resilience, “The Underdog” is shaping up to be essential viewing this fall.
Daniel Alfredsson may have started his career as an underdog—but thanks to this powerful new documentary, his legacy is now firmly in the spotlight.