DEAL ACCEPTED: Netflix Releases Documentary “The Heart of the Arkansas: A Journey Through Team and Band” Chronicling Arkansas Razorbacks
A powerful new series highlights the spirit, struggle, and unity behind the Razorbacks’ game day magic.
Fayetteville, AR – In a groundbreaking move that blends college athletics, music, and raw storytelling, Netflix has officially released its latest sports documentary series, “The Heart of the Arkansas: A Journey Through Team and Band,” chronicling the emotional and behind-the-scenes journey of the Arkansas Razorbacks football team and the Razorback Marching Band.
The six-part series, now streaming globally, follows the 2024 football season through an entirely fresh lens—spotlighting not only the players and coaches on the field, but also the student-musicians in the stands who provide the heartbeat of every home game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
Produced by Emmy-winning documentarian Ava Garrison and filmed over ten months in collaboration with the University of Arkansas, the series captures the intense highs and heartbreaking lows of a program chasing greatness, all while celebrating the rarely-seen dedication, pressure, and artistry of the marching band that performs at every game.
“This is more than a football story,” Garrison said at the red carpet premiere in Fayetteville. “It’s about passion, identity, and what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself—whether you’re in pads or playing a trumpet.”
The documentary kicks off with fall camp, introducing fans to rising quarterback Kyron Drones, head coach Sam Pittman, and several key senior leaders. But it quickly interweaves the lives of Razorback Marching Band members—like drum major Emily Foster and percussionist Tyree Benton—who balance early morning rehearsals, academic workloads, and the pressure of performing before tens of thousands.
Throughout the series, viewers are taken deep inside the locker room and the band hall, showing everything from pregame rituals and grueling practices to quiet moments of doubt, camaraderie, and triumph.
Coach Sam Pittman gave the Netflix crew unprecedented access to the football program, a move he said he hoped would inspire people to see the full picture of college athletics.
“Everyone sees the touchdowns and the highlights,” Pittman said. “But they don’t always see the work, the grit, the heart that goes into it—from our players and from those incredible students in the band. This series shows it all.”
One of the season’s most emotional episodes covers the Razorbacks’ thrilling win over LSU and the band’s stunning halftime tribute to fallen alumni, bringing players and musicians to tears in a moment of unity that transcended the game.
Since its release, “The Heart of the Arkansas” has soared into Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched in the U.S. and is receiving rave reviews for its authenticity, cinematography, and moving narrative.
With real stories, real stakes, and a powerful message of unity, the documentary delivers something for every viewer—whether you’re a die-hard Razorback fan or simply someone who loves stories of resilience and pride.
The heart of Arkansas beats stronger than ever—and now, the world is watching.
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