Netflix is set to release its highly anticipated documentary “Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem” on Tuesday, June 17 at 3:00 a.m., shining a spotlight on the meteoric rise and chaotic downfall of one of Canada’s most infamous political figures — the late Rob Ford, former mayor of Toronto.
Directed by Shianne Brown, the 49-minute film is the second installment in Netflix’s “Trainwreck” anthology series, which revisits high-profile controversies that captured international attention over the last decade. Other episodes in the series include “The Astroworld Tragedy,” “The Cult of American Apparel,” “Poop Cruise,” and “The Real Project X.”
“Mayor of Mayhem” chronicles Ford’s unlikely journey from city councillor to mayor in the 2010 election — a candidacy dismissed by many as a longshot — and the wave of scandals that engulfed his administration. From shocking drug use allegations and bizarre public appearances to combative press conferences and police investigations, Ford’s mayoralty became global tabloid fodder and a cautionary tale of populist politics.
Ford, who served as mayor from 2010 to 2014, was as polarizing as he was charismatic. His blunt political style won support from suburban voters, but his turbulent personal life — marred by substance abuse, public outbursts, and legal troubles — repeatedly overshadowed his agenda.
In 2014, Ford was forced to drop out of the re-election race after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He passed away on March 22, 2016, at the age of 46 after a two-year battle with the illness.
With rare footage and interviews, “Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem” offers a raw and riveting look into a mayoralty that captivated the world for all the wrong reasons. The documentary will be available globally on Netflix starting June 17.