Netflix Pulls the Plug on Controversial Van Morrison Documentary

Controversial Van Morrison Doc Canceled Before Release

Long-awaited docuseries abruptly shelved after backlash from artist’s estate

A highly anticipated documentary centered on legendary singer-songwriter Van Morrison has officially been scrapped by Netflix. The six-hour project, helmed by Oscar-winning director Ezra Edelman, had reportedly been in development for over four years — but mounting concerns from Morrison’s camp have led to its cancellation.

Sources close to the situation revealed that Morrison’s estate took serious issue with early cuts of the film, citing “dramatic factual inaccuracies” and accusing the project of sensationalizing key moments in the artist’s life. The estate, which had previously voiced its disapproval in private meetings last summer, is said to have played a major role in blocking the film’s release.

The documentary, which aimed to trace Morrison’s rise from Belfast to global stardom, had promised never-before-seen footage and rare interviews. However, insiders claim the narrative veered too far into dramatized territory, presenting embellished versions of events that didn’t sit well with those closest to the “Brown Eyed Girl” singer.

With the project officially shelved, Edelman’s team has been released from further obligations, and the unused archival material — described by some as “golden vault content” — will now be redirected to alternative projects, possibly with tighter creative oversight.

Netflix has yet to issue a formal statement on the matter, but those in the industry aren’t surprised by the development. “When the artist’s estate pulls support and questions the integrity of the story, it’s hard to move forward,” said one producer familiar with the situation.

For now, fans of Van Morrison will have to wait and see if another team will take on the challenge of documenting the life of one of music’s most complex and iconic figures — in a way that earns the estate’s blessing.