Netflix to release a film about legendary photographer Richard Avedon
Directed by Ron Howard
Netflix is preparing «Avedon», a documentary about Richard Avedon, one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. The film is directed by Ron Howard, known for «A Beautiful Mind», «Rush» and «The Da Vinci Code». It is scheduled to premiere on the streaming platform on November 11, 2026.
The documentary traces the artist’s career, which spanned more than six decades. Avedon photographed Hollywood stars, politicians and figures from the fashion industry, while also turning his lens on ordinary people, social activists and those whose stories rarely made it into the spotlight. His work transformed perceptions of beauty and style while expanding the possibilities of photography itself.
The documentary draws on material from the photographer’s personal archive. Viewers will discover previously unpublished photographs, behind-the-scenes footage and accounts from people who worked with Avedon. The film offers a glimpse not only into his best-known work but also into the creative explorations and personal experiences behind it.
Ron Howard first became interested in Avedon’s story in 2023, when he was invited to select a photograph for «Avedon 100», an exhibition marking the centenary of the artist’s birth. He was initially struck by the diversity of Avedon’s work, from fashion shoots to portraits of people who helped shape society. He later decided to dedicate a documentary to the photographer.
The film’s release coincides with another project celebrating Avedon’s legacy. On October 13, 2026, Abrams Books published «Richard Avedon: The Harper’s Bazaar Years». The book brings together iconic and lesser-known photographs created for «Harper’s Bazaar» between 1944 and 1965. It also features a previously unpublished oral history in which Avedon reflects on his work for the magazine, an essay by fashion journalist Derek Blasberg and a foreword by Samira Nasr, editor-in-chief of «Harper’s Bazaar».
Together, the two projects offer fresh perspectives on the work of a photographer who transformed the visual language of fashion photography and pushed its boundaries. His images remain an important part of art history and visual culture today.
Photos: Instagram @avedonfoundation, @atelier_robertdoisneau, @carlozvill2, @jonathanmannion
