Netflix Unveils Emotional Documentary on Legendary Reds Commentators Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall
In a heartfelt tribute to two of baseball’s most cherished voices, Netflix has officially released a new documentary chronicling the life and career of legendary Cincinnati Reds broadcasters Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall. The much-anticipated film, which will premiere on May 27th, offers fans a deeply personal and emotional journey through decades of baseball history, camaraderie, and passion for the game.
Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall were more than just commentators. For generations of Cincinnati Reds fans, they were the voices of summer, the comforting presence during late-night innings, and the storytellers who brought the drama of America’s pastime into millions of homes. Their partnership in the Reds’ broadcast booth was one of the longest-running and most beloved in Major League Baseball history.
Titled “Voices of the Reds: The Marty and Joe Story,” the documentary dives into the lives of the two broadcasters both on and off the air. Featuring never-before-seen footage, exclusive interviews with family members, former players, colleagues, and fans, the film paints a rich picture of their legacy. It highlights not only their professional milestones but also the personal friendship that made them such a dynamic duo.
The film opens with archival audio of Brennaman’s first broadcast for the Reds in 1974, followed by Nuxhall’s historic moment as the youngest player ever to appear in an MLB game—just 15 years old when he took the mound in 1944. Their careers would eventually intersect in the Reds’ radio booth, where their unique chemistry and deep knowledge of the game made them a fan favorite for decades.
One of the most moving segments of the documentary focuses on Nuxhall’s humility and perseverance. Despite a rocky start to his playing career, he evolved into a respected pitcher and, more significantly, a beloved broadcaster. His catchphrase “This is the old left-hander, rounding third and heading for home,” became a signature goodbye that fans still cherish years after his final sign-off in 2004.
Brennaman, known for his fiery passion and honest commentary, provides the emotional core of the film. The documentary revisits his famous calls, including his legendary “And this one belongs to the Reds!” after each win, and explores the deep bond he formed with fans over 46 seasons. His farewell speech in 2019, given to a sold-out crowd at Great American Ball Park, serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring impact on the sport and its community.
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Rachel Simmons, “Voices of the Reds” balances nostalgia with insight. Simmons masterfully captures how Brennaman and Nuxhall transcended the booth to become cultural icons in Cincinnati and throughout Major League Baseball. Interviews with notable figures like Ken Griffey Jr., Johnny Bench, and Bob Castellini underscore just how pivotal the two were in shaping the Reds’ identity.
Netflix’s decision to produce the documentary underlines the platform’s commitment to preserving sports history and celebrating the figures who defined it. In a statement, Simmons noted, “This documentary isn’t just about baseball—it’s about friendship, legacy, and how two men helped shape the heartbeat of a city.”
For Reds fans, baseball enthusiasts, and lovers of sports storytelling, “Voices of the Reds” is a must-watch. It stands not only as a tribute to Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall but also as a reminder of the power of sports to unite communities and generations.
Set your reminders: May 27th will be a day for remembering two of the greatest voices the game has ever known.