Netflix has officially announced a new, deeply personal documentary chronicling the life and career of country music sensation Cody Johnson. Titled Cody Johnson: Leather and Legacy, the series will premiere globally on November 20, 2025, offering fans an unfiltered glimpse into the man behind the cowboy hat and platinum records. Known for his gritty vocals, rodeo background, and unwavering authenticity, Johnson’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Cody Johnson, born May 21, 1987, began his journey far from the bright lights of Nashville. A former rodeo rider turned country music star, he built his career from the ground up—self-releasing six albums and cultivating a loyal fanbase long before signing with a major label. His breakthrough came with Ain’t Nothin’ to It in 2019, a project that shot to the top of the charts and solidified his place in modern country music. The documentary will explore this journey in intimate detail, highlighting both his setbacks and triumphs.
The docuseries will feature exclusive interviews with Johnson himself, as well as appearances by Reba McEntire, George Strait, and Jelly Roll, who provide insight into Johnson’s impact on the genre and his unwavering dedication to staying true to his roots. Family members, bandmates, and long-time collaborators also appear, painting a vivid portrait of the artist and the man.
Leather and Legacy will showcase never-before-seen footage from Cody’s early days performing in Texas honky-tonks, behind-the-scenes moments on tour, and emotional family milestones. The filmmakers were granted unprecedented access to Cody’s archives, including personal journals, handwritten lyrics, and studio sessions that reveal his creative process and internal struggles.
A major theme of the series is the tension between fame and integrity. Johnson is known for turning down major label offers early in his career in order to maintain artistic control—decisions that are examined closely in the documentary. Viewers will also witness how Cody balances his roles as a husband, father, and public figure, navigating the country music scene without losing his sense of self.
The documentary’s soundtrack is a highlight in its own right. It features remastered versions of Johnson’s biggest hits, including On My Way to You, Dear Rodeo, and Til You Can’t. Fans will also be treated to new, unreleased tracks recorded exclusively for the series, capturing Cody’s continued evolution as a storyteller and performer.
With rich cinematography and a soundtrack that spans Johnson’s entire career, Leather and Legacy is both a celebration and a reflection. The series aims not just to entertain but to inspire, showing how grit, faith, and an unrelenting drive can turn a former bull rider into one of country music’s most respected voices.
Critics and fans are already praising the project, calling it one of the most anticipated music documentaries of the year. Social media buzz has been growing since the teaser trailer dropped, with many applauding Netflix for spotlighting an artist who embodies the spirit of country music in its purest form.
Cody Johnson: Leather and Legacy is more than a documentary—it’s a tribute to hard work, authenticity, and the American dream. As the release date draws near, fans across the world are preparing to ride along on the journey of a cowboy who never gave up and found his place on the biggest stages in country music.
