In a major announcement that has excited hockey fans across North America, Netflix has officially unveiled its newest sports documentary, The Underdog, which chronicles the life and career of St. Louis Blues legend Bernie Federko. Slated for release on July 15, the film promises an in-depth, emotional, and previously untold look into the journey of one of the NHL’s most quietly influential players.Federko, often hailed as the “unsung hero” of St. Louis hockey, has long been overdue for his moment in the spotlight. With The Underdog, Netflix aims to correct that narrative, giving younger generations and seasoned fans alike a chance to rediscover the brilliance, grit, and heart that defined his career.
A LEGACY BUILT ON HUMILITY AND EXCELLENCE
Bernie Federko may not be the flashiest name in NHL history, but among true hockey purists, he’s considered one of the most underrated centers to ever play the game. Drafted seventh overall by the St. Louis Blues in 1976, Federko went on to play 13 seasons with the team, amassing 1,130 points in 1,000 NHL games, most of them wearing the Blue Note.
What separated Federko wasn’t just his vision and playmaking ability—it was his unshakable loyalty to St. Louis, his selfless style of play, and his leadership both on and off the ice.
Netflix’s The Underdog will explore this underappreciated greatness. The documentary is directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Rachel Stern and features interviews with former teammates, NHL legends, and Federko’s family. Among the big names featured are Wayne Gretzky, Brett Hull, Al MacInnis, and Keith Tkachuk—all of whom describe Federko as “the best player nobody talked about enough.”
A STORY DECADES IN THE MAKING
According to Stern, the inspiration for the film came from watching Federko’s 2002 Hall of Fame induction speech.
> “Bernie’s humility struck me right away,” Stern said in a press release. “Here was a man who gave everything to a franchise, to a city, and he still spoke like he was just lucky to be there. That’s not luck—that’s legacy.”
The documentary took nearly three years to produce and includes rare footage from Federko’s junior hockey days with the Saskatoon Blades, his early years with the Blues, and never-before-seen home videos provided by the Federko family.
One particularly emotional segment covers the 1986 playoffs, when the Blues came within one game of the Stanley Cup Final. Federko’s on-ice leadership and off-ice heartbreak are explored in depth—especially the toll the near-miss took on a player who had dedicated everything to winning for his city.
A TITLE THAT FITS
Why The Underdog? The title is not just a nod to Federko’s under-the-radar status among the NHL’s elite—it’s also a reflection of the St. Louis Blues organization during his tenure. For years, the team fought through playoff disappointment, roster upheavals, and the shadow of bigger-market franchises. Yet Federko remained a steady presence, often carrying the load for a team that was rarely expected to contend.
In the film, Federko addresses that dynamic with grace.
> “We never had the biggest stars or the highest payroll,” he says. “But we had heart, and we had each other. That’s what made it special.”
NETFLIX’S CONTINUING PUSH INTO SPORTS DOCUMENTARIES
The Underdog is the latest in a growing line of high-profile sports documentaries from Netflix, following in the footsteps of The Last Dance (Michael Jordan), Quarterback (NFL), and Break Point (tennis). But this is the streamer’s first full-length NHL-focused documentary, and insiders believe it may open the door for more stories from the hockey world.
A Netflix executive involved in the project said:
> “There’s a huge appetite for authentic, emotional sports stories. Bernie’s story is rich in both. This isn’t just for hockey fans—it’s for anyone who believes in perseverance, loyalty, and doing things the right way.”
REACTION FROM ST. LOUIS AND THE HOCKEY WORLD
As news of the documentary’s release date spread, reactions from the hockey community poured in.
St. Louis Blues Chairman Tom Stillman called it “a moment of pride for the entire Blues organization,” adding that Federko “represents the soul of this franchise.”
Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to express their excitement. One lifelong Blues supporter posted on X (formerly Twitter):
> “Finally! Bernie is getting the love he deserves. He’s the reason I became a fan. Can’t wait to watch The Underdog with my kids.”
Former teammate Brian Sutter, who captained the Blues during Federko’s prime years, appears extensively in the documentary and shared his thoughts in a recent interview:
> “Bernie was our rock. Quiet leader, incredible teammate, one of the best passers the game has ever seen. I’m glad the world’s going to see the Bernie we all knew.”
PERSONAL STRUGGLES, FAMILY SACRIFICES
The film does not shy away from the personal side of Federko’s journey. It delves into the family sacrifices he made while chasing his NHL dream and highlights his life after retirement, including his long-standing role as a broadcaster for the Blues.
In one tearful segment, Federko’s wife Bernadette recalls the pressures of raising a family while her husband played 80+ games a season, often on the road. “There were times we barely saw him,” she says. “But we always knew he was doing it for the right reasons.”
The couple’s two sons, including former NHL player Jordy Federko, also appear, shedding light on the man behind the legend.
FEDERKO’S HUMBLE REACTION
When asked how he felt about having an entire Netflix documentary dedicated to his life, Federko responded with typical modesty.
> “It’s a little overwhelming, to be honest. I never thought my story would be told like this. But I’m honored. And I hope it makes St. Louis proud.”
PREMIERE EVENT AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS
The Underdog will debut on Netflix globally on July 15, but St. Louis fans will get an early look at a special red-carpet premiere event at Enterprise Center on July 12, with Federko, his family, and several Blues legends in attendance. Limited tickets will be made available to season-ticket holders and select community members.
Following the premiere, Netflix has confirmed that The Underdog will be subtitled in over 20 languages, ensuring that Federko’s story resonates beyond the hockey world.
LOOKING AHEAD
As the hockey community awaits the documentary’s release, The Underdog is already being discussed as a potential Emmy contender. More importantly, it’s shining a long-overdue spotlight on a man whose greatness was defined not just by stats or awards—but by integrity, leadership, and devotion to his city.