TNT Sports today announces a brand-new sixty-minute documentary, Lomu: The Lost Tapes, which provides a never-before-seen look inside the life of rugby legend Jonah Lomu. The documentary premieres at 11pm on October 31st on free-to-air channel Quest, and is available to view on TNT Sports 1 in the UK and Ireland on November 1st and to stream on-demand on discovery+ from November 2nd.

Jonah Lomu is widely regarded as one of the most influential players in rugby history, the first global super star of the game and one of the most talented sportsmen ever. He scored 37 tries in 63 appearances for New Zealand and in 2007 was inducted into international rugby’s Hall of Fame.

The groundbreaking film tells the story of the All Black legend in his own words, charting his journey from humble beginnings to the height of a transcendent rugby career. For the first time ever, Lomu’s extraordinary life is recounted through previously unreleased footage that captures the raw and intimate moments from his memorable life.

Fans can enjoy personal insight from Lomu himself on his experiences at the 1995 and 1999 World Cups, as well as the challenges and struggles faced by his illness. In addition, the documentary features poignant contributions from some of rugby’s most iconic figures, including Ireland rugby legend Brian O'Driscoll former England captain Will Carling OBE, Tony Underwood (27 England caps) and Frank Bunce (55 New Zealand caps) Lomu’s family also share deeply personal insights, painting a fuller picture of the man who changed the face of the sport forever.

The film, produced by All3Media-backed 3 Rock Productions for TNT Sports, is voiced by his friend and former teammate Sean Fitzpatrick, who was part of the All Blacks’ World Cup winning side in 1987 and captained the team during Lomu’s meteoric rise to fame in the 1990s.

The documentary also delves into the profound effect he had on the sport, inspiring future generations and leaving an indelible mark on the game. His story is one of determination, talent, and the enduring human spirit.

Scott Young, Group SVP Content, Production and Business Operations, WBD Sports Europe said: “Jonah Lomu’s legacy transcends beyond rugby, but throughout sporting history, and we are honored to tell the story of a true icon.

“Through access to hours of unseen footage, we have been able to document his life both on and off the field to an unprecedented level. Fans will be taken on an intimate journey of a true sporting hero, showcasing TNT Sports’ storytelling prowess beyond live coverage.

“We are delighted to make this available to all audiences across free-to-air, linear and streaming, cementing our position as a market leader in rugby content in the U.K and Ireland. It also serves as the perfect platform to launch our live coverage of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series starting on November 2nd.

“Since the launch of TNT Sports, we’ve adopted a fan-first ethos, committed to delivering the best possible viewing experience. We aim to take sport broadcasting to new heights, whether it’s through unrivalled expertise or market-leading innovation, our goal is to cement TNT Sports as the go-to destination for premium sport programming”.

Lomu’s story is particularly poignant ahead England’s crunch match against New Zealand in the opening fixture of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series on November 2nd. Every match will be broadcast live across TNT Sports and discovery+ for the first time ever.

Lomu: The Lost Tapes premieres on Quest at 11pm on October 31st.

Broadcast Key Dates and Times
Thursday October 31st: Quest, 11pm
Friday November 1st: TNT Sports 1, 12pm & 10pm
Saturday November 2nd: TNT Sports 1, 8pm

Available to stream on-demand on discovery+ from November 2nd.

Lomu: The Lost Tapes is the latest in a series of original productions from TNT Sports, highlighting the power of sport to champion diversity and create inclusive, thought-provoking content. Other releases in 2024 include The Club that George Built, The Rise and Rise of the UFC, and Rylan: Football, Homophobia and Me. All available to stream on-demand on discovery+.