In a surprising yet exhilarating announcement that’s already sparking fiery debates within the music world, Netflix has confirmed the release of an in-depth documentary titled Thunderstruck—The Legendary Career, spotlighting the explosive rise, tumultuous setbacks, and relentless reinvention of the legendary Australian rock band AC/DC. The highly anticipated series is scheduled to premiere globally in October 2025, and reactions are already polarizing fans, critics, and fellow musicians alike.
A Rock Legacy Like No Other
AC/DC, the hard-rocking powerhouse formed by Scottish-born brothers Angus and Malcolm Young in Sydney in 1973, has long been hailed as one of the most influential bands in rock history. With a career spanning over five decades, AC/DC’s sound—a potent cocktail of blues-based rock, rebellious energy, and thunderous riffs—has become anthemic across generations.
Their 1980 album Back in Black remains the second-best-selling album of all time, and songs like “Highway to Hell,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and “Thunderstruck” have cemented the group’s legacy. But behind their hard-edged music and schoolboy-uniform stage antics lies a story of loss, resilience, and reinvention—one that Netflix is now bringing to the screen in what it claims will be its “most electrifying music documentary ever.”
The Controversial Take
What sets Thunderstruck – The Legendary Career apart from previous retrospectives is its intent to peel back the layers of the band’s mythos. This isn’t merely a celebration; it’s an examination—and a sometimes harsh one. According to the show’s executive producer, Livia Tanzi, the goal was to create “a warts-and-all chronicle that examines the highs and lows, the ego clashes, the grief, and the sheer ambition that kept AC/DC going when other bands would have fallen apart.”
The controversy arises from the documentary’s unfiltered tone. From tensions with record labels to internal rifts and the tragic death of lead singer Bon Scott in 1980, Thunderstruck leaves little untouched. In fact, early reports suggest that some former bandmates and industry collaborators declined to participate, fearing editorial manipulation or the airing of unresolved grievances.
Netflix has already faced backlash for allegedly sensationalizing sensitive aspects of other artist documentaries, and fans worry the same could happen here. But for every critic, there’s an eager viewer anticipating a deeper understanding of what made AC/DC such a relentless force.
Episode Breakdown: A Chronicle of Fire and Grit
The documentary is structured as a six-part limited series, each episode focusing on a defining chapter in AC/DC’s journey.
- “Let There Be Rock” – Tracing the band’s gritty early days in Sydney pubs, this episode explores Malcolm and Angus Young’s musical roots, their early lineup changes, and the gradual formation of their signature sound.
- “Bonfire” tribute to Bon Scott, AC/DC’s original frontman whose wild charisma and vocal firepower helped catapult the band to international fame. This episode delves into the lifestyle that endeared and ultimately destroyed him.
- “Back in Black”—The Turning Point. With Bon gone, the band’s future seemed uncertain—until the arrival of Brian Johnson. Chronicling the pressure and triumph of recording Back in Black, this episode is arguably the emotional core of the series.
- “Dirty Deeds”—Fame brought fortune, but also friction. Disputes with record executives, financial mismanagement, and the gruelling demands of global touring begin to fray internal dynamics.
- “Who Made Who”—A closer look at the band’s 1990s and early 2000s years, including how they adapted to shifting musical landscapes and retained relevance when so many of their contemporaries faded.
- “Thunderstruck”—The modern era: ageing, legacy, and rebirth.” With the deaths of Malcolm Young and drummer Phil Rudd’s legal troubles, the band faced its greatest challenges. Yet, the release of Power Up in 2020 proved they weren’t done yet.
Each episode is brimming with archival footage, never-before-seen photos, rare demo recordings, and exclusive interviews with surviving members, family, journalists, and musicians influenced by AC/DC.
The Players Speak: Mixed Reactions from the Band
Brian Johnson, the band’s longtime frontman, has lent his voice and insights to the documentary, describing the process as “emotional and raw.” He added in a press release, “AC/DC is more than just riffs and amps. It’s blood, sweat, loss, and a lot of laughter, too. I think fans deserve to know that.”
Angus Young, the sole original member still touring under the band’s name, was reportedly more cautious. While he participated in interviews, sources say he had reservations about some of the documentary’s editorial directions, particularly around personal struggles and the band’s darker chapters.
Phil Rudd and Cliff Williams declined to appear, citing discomfort with the direction of the narrative and privacy concerns. Their absence is likely to fuel speculation and debate, especially as the documentary examines the more controversial periods in the band’s history.
A Soundtrack for the Ages
A key component of the series is its soundtrack. Netflix has secured licensing rights to over 30 AC/DC tracks for the series, including live renditions, rare demos, and alternate studio takes. The sonic experience is expected to be a major draw, with immersive Dolby Atmos sound design aimed at capturing the raw power of the band’s iconic concerts.
Moreover, rumors suggest Netflix is working on a special vinyl and digital release titled Thunderstruck: The Official Soundtrack, coinciding with the documentary premiere. If confirmed, it could include unreleased material and new remixes, further enticing die-hard fans.
Cultural Reappraisal or Commercial Exploitation?
Critics are already questioning Netflix’s motives. Is this a heartfelt tribute or a cynical cash-in on nostalgia? Rock journalist Gavin Holmes notes, “AC/DC’s story is sacred to millions. Netflix has a history of crafting compelling narratives, but it also dramatizes. The concern is whether storytelling will take precedence over truth.”
On social media, reactions are equally mixed. Some welcome the deep dive:
“Finally! A real look at one of the greatest bands in history.” – @rocknrollforever
“If they don’t turn this into a Bon vs. Brian debate, I’m all in.” – @vinylhead89
Others express hesitation:
“Stop monetizing pain. Bon’s death deserves dignity, not a Netflix dramatization.” – @metalpurist
“If it becomes a highlight reel of tragedy, count me out.” – @angusfan77
Looking Forward
Regardless of the mixed reception, one thing is clear: Thunderstruck—The Legendary Career is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about music documentaries of the decade. With its blend of reverence, critique, and spectacle, Netflix has set the stage for a cultural event that could redefine how we think about legacy rock in the streaming age.
For fans of AC/DC, rock historians, and curious newcomers alike, October 2025 is a date to circle in red.
And whether you’re tuning in for nostalgia, insight, or just to hear “Hell’s Bells” through a state-of-the-art sound system, Thunderstruck promises to make you feel every note, every memory, and every electric jolt that has kept AC/DC at the forefront of rock music for over 50 years.
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