The Tyson Netflix docuseries is out now, and the first reviews are split. The four-part series, directed by Floyd Russ, premiered Tuesday, Oct. 13, and lets Mike Tyson tell his own story, with critics calling it compelling, uneven or “deeply icky,” depending on the outlet, The Hollywood Reporter, The Guardian and The Telegraph report.
What the Tyson Netflix docuseries covers
The series follows Tyson from a rough childhood in Brownsville, Brooklyn, to heavyweight champion, according to Decider. The first episode centers on his years with trainer Cus D’Amato, who died in 1985, and his 1986 win over Trevor Berbick at age 20 to become the youngest heavyweight champion. Decider says Tyson, now 60, speaks frankly about his past, and that Bill Simmons is an executive producer.
The New York Post reports that Tyson also talks about his drug use, including overdosing more than once. We are keeping that detail brief and point readers to the series itself.
What critics are saying about Tyson
The reviews do not agree. The Telegraph calls the series “grimly compelling” and “compulsively watchable,” though too long. Decider recommends it. THR is cooler, saying it is “as erratic as its subject” and that it tells the story “as only Mike Tyson could.” The Guardian goes furthest, calling it “deeply icky” and “truly irresponsible.”
Several reviews also note an appearance by President Donald Trump, who speaks in support of Tyson. The Guardian quotes him calling Tyson “very truthful.” THR says Trump also weighs in on the sexual assault allegations against Tyson, so the series touches on his legal history as well.
How to watch
All four episodes are streaming now on Netflix, per The Guardian.
For more TV news today, see our reports on Love Is Blind Season 11 and the Dancing with the Stars tour.
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Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, The Guardian, The Telegraph, Decider, New York Post. Published Oct. 14, 2026. The featured image is an editorial cartoon, not a photograph.
