Celebrities and their Documentaries: Beckham’s Netflix Series Drives a $36m Payday, and more

Documentary journalist Peter Hamilton analyzes the lucrative world of celebrity documentaries, highlighting how these projects serve as both marketing platforms and substantial revenue sources for their subjects. The Beckham family reportedly earned $36 million from their Netflix series while gaining significant creative control, including final approval rights over content. These documentaries function as part of larger marketing strategies, with the Beckhams using their series to increase visibility for Victoria’s beauty line and David’s various business ventures. While such projects raise questions about journalistic integrity, they represent a growing intersection of documentary filmmaking and celebrity brand management that continues to attract major streamers seeking subscriber growth.