Netflix has officially announced a 10-episode limited series dedicated to one of motorsport’s most legendary figures — Dale Earnhardt. Titled “The Intimidator: The Dale Earnhardt Story,” the series promises to capture the heart, grit, and unyielding spirit of the man who became the face of NASCAR for over two decades. The newly released trailer teases high-octane racing footage, intimate interviews, and never-before-seen moments from the life of a driver whose passion and fearlessness changed the sport forever.
The series begins with Earnhardt’s early days in Kannapolis, North Carolina, where a young man with a dream and a burning need to compete learned to race on dirt tracks before conquering NASCAR’s biggest stages. Through rare archival footage and firsthand accounts from family, teammates, and rivals, “The Intimidator” paints a portrait of a man whose determination was as fierce as his driving style. Netflix promises a story that honors not just the legend, but the human being behind the black No. 3 car — a father, a friend, and a fighter who inspired millions.
Each episode delves into a defining chapter of Earnhardt’s journey — from his struggles to break into the sport to his rise as one of the most dominant drivers in racing history. Fans will witness the making of his iconic nickname “The Intimidator,” a title he earned through his fearless tactics and unrelenting will to win. Interviews with racing greats, including Jeff Gordon and Richard Petty, shed light on how Earnhardt’s presence transformed NASCAR into a cultural phenomenon, reaching audiences far beyond the track.
But “The Intimidator” is more than just a racing documentary — it’s a deeply emotional exploration of family, legacy, and sacrifice. The series features heartfelt reflections from Dale Earnhardt Jr., who opens up about growing up in his father’s shadow and carrying forward his legacy on the track. Through candid moments and never-before-shared home videos, viewers will see a side of Earnhardt rarely captured by cameras: the loving dad, the quiet mentor, and the man who found peace only behind the wheel.
The show also examines the changing landscape of NASCAR during the height of Earnhardt’s career — a period marked by fierce rivalries, evolving technology, and the rise of global media coverage. With stunning race recreations, authentic sound design, and carefully restored footage from the Daytona 500, Netflix immerses viewers in the tension and thrill of each lap. Directors have ensured that every roar of the engine and every flash of the checkered flag feels as real as the moment it happened.
One of the most powerful episodes centers on the tragic 2001 Daytona 500, where Earnhardt lost his life in a final turn that stunned the world. The episode approaches the event with profound sensitivity, allowing fans and loved ones to reflect on the impact of that day — not only on NASCAR, but on sports culture as a whole. It also highlights the safety reforms that followed, forever changing how the sport protects its drivers.
Behind the camera, the production team includes Emmy-winning documentarian Ezra Edelman, known for his work on O.J.: Made in America. His direction brings a cinematic intensity to Earnhardt’s story, blending emotional storytelling with breathtaking visuals and expert commentary. Netflix has described the project as “a celebration of courage and perseverance,” designed to resonate with both die-hard racing fans and viewers who simply admire stories of human endurance.
“The Intimidator: The Dale Earnhardt Story” is set to premiere worldwide on Netflix next spring. Early reactions to the trailer have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans calling it a long-overdue tribute to the man who defined an era of American racing. Through triumph, tragedy, and legacy, this series reminds audiences why Dale Earnhardt’s name still echoes across racetracks and hearts around the world — a legend who never backed down, never slowed down, and never stopped chasing victory.
About the Author
