Simone Biles Rising

Inside Simone Biles Rising: The Untold Story Behind the Gymnast’s Netflix Docuseries

Netflix’s Simone Biles Rising isn’t just another sports documentary—it’s a raw, unfiltered look at the most decorated gymnast of all time, and the pressures that nearly broke her. Directed by Katie Walsh, the four-part series dives into Biles’ tumultuous journey from her Tokyo Olympics withdrawal to her triumphant return at the 2024 Paris Games. But behind the scenes, the production faced its own challenges, latestnetflix.com maintains, from safeguarding Biles’ mental health to uncovering the human side of a global icon.

A Director’s Mission: Protecting Biles’ Story—and Her Well-Being

Katie Walsh didn’t just want to chronicle Biles’ athletic dominance; she aimed to reveal the person behind the medals. In interviews, Walsh has emphasized the importance of portraying Biles’ struggles with mental health, resilience, and the weight of expectations . But capturing that vulnerability came with risks. Walsh revealed that the team took extra precautions to ensure Biles felt safe and in control during filming, particularly when revisiting her Tokyo withdrawal—a moment that sparked global debate .

The director’s approach paid off. Simone Biles Rising doesn’t shy away from the darker chapters of Biles’ career, including the abuse she endured under former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. Fellow gymnasts like Aly Raisman and Dominique Moceanu appear in the series, offering their own perspectives on the sport’s toxic culture and Biles’ role in forcing change .

The Heartwarming Moment That Almost Didn’t Happen

One of the most talked-about revelations from the docuseries isn’t about Biles’ routines—it’s about her kindness. Walsh shared an anecdote about Biles going out of her way to ensure a young fan’s experience was unforgettable. The director described it as a "heartwarming action" that highlighted Biles’ humility, even amid her superstardom . While the specifics of the moment remain under wraps, it’s a rare glimpse into the gymnast’s off-stage personality, which the series frames as just as compelling as her athletic feats.

A Comeback Story—With New Rivals and Old Ghosts

The second half of Simone Biles Rising, released in October 2024, zeroes in on her Paris Olympics campaign, where she faced off against rising stars like Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade and Team USA’s Sunisa Lee . The series captures the tension of her return, including the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level after stepping back in Tokyo.

But the docuseries also reveals the camaraderie among gymnasts, with Biles’ husband, Jonathan Owens, and teammates like Joscelyn Roberson offering support. Even Andrade, Biles’ biggest rival, is shown in a surprisingly warm light, underscoring the mutual respect between athletes who push each other to greatness .

Why This Docuseries Stands Out

Unlike traditional sports documentaries, Simone Biles Rising isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s a study in resilience, mental health, and the cost of being the best. Walsh’s direction ensures the series feels intimate, even when Biles is at the center of global attention. And while the first half laid the groundwork, the second part delivers the emotional payoff—Biles’ redemption arc, complete with the highs of Paris and the lingering shadows of Tokyo .

For fans, the docuseries is a chance to see Biles as more than a gymnast: a leader, a survivor, and, above all, a human being. And for Walsh, it’s proof that the most compelling stories aren’t just about what happens on the mat—they’re about what happens when the world isn’t watching.