May 10, 2025 — Los Gatos, CA — Netflix has announced a new original documentary series focusing on the life and legacy of legendary rock guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, known for his groundbreaking work with Deep Purple, Rainbow, and later, Blackmore’s Night. Titled “Shadow and Strings: The Ritchie Blackmore Chronicles”, the series is set to premiere globally on August 15, 2025, and promises an in-depth look at one of rock music’s most enigmatic and influential figures.
The four-part docuseries is being produced by Oscar-winning filmmaker Asif Kapadia (Amy, Senna, Diego Maradona) and will feature never-before-seen archival footage, rare photos, and exclusive interviews with Blackmore himself, as well as former bandmates, producers, and contemporary artists influenced by his work.
A Guitar Legend Revisited
Ritchie Blackmore is widely regarded as a pioneer of hard rock and heavy metal guitar, known for his classical-influenced style, blistering solos, and moody persona. From the iconic riffs of Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” to the neoclassical flourishes in Rainbow’s catalog, Blackmore’s career has spanned more than five decades and helped shape the sound of modern rock.
“Ritchie Blackmore is one of those rare talents who truly redefined what it meant to be a guitarist,” said Kapadia in a statement. “His story is as layered and complex as his music, and we wanted to do justice to that journey—his genius, his contradictions, and his ongoing legacy.”
Inside “Shadow and Strings”
Each episode of “Shadow and Strings” will focus on a distinct chapter of Blackmore’s career:
- Episode 1: “The Early Sparks” – From session work in the 1960s to the formation of Deep Purple.
- Episode 2: “Purple Reign” – The meteoric rise and internal conflicts during Deep Purple’s golden years.
- Episode 3: “The Rainbow Connection” – Blackmore’s vision behind Rainbow and collaborations with Ronnie James Dio.
- Episode 4: “Mystic Strings” – His transformation into a Renaissance-inspired performer with Blackmore’s Night and his reflections on legacy.
The series will also explore Blackmore’s lesser-known interests, including his fascination with medieval music, his reputation for eccentricity, and his selective relationship with fame.
Star-Studded Commentary
The docuseries features commentary from rock luminaries such as Tony Iommi, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and Lars Ulrich, as well as former bandmates Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, and Candice Night, Blackmore’s longtime partner in music and life.
Netflix’s VP of Unscripted Content, Lisa Nishimura, noted: “This series is part of our ongoing commitment to music storytelling. Ritchie Blackmore’s influence is felt across genres and generations, and we believe viewers will find his story as compelling as his music.”
Global Premiere and Reception
“Shadow and Strings: The Ritchie Blackmore Chronicles” will be available in over 190 countries, with localized subtitles and dubbed versions in select languages. Music fans and rock historians alike are already buzzing about the series on social media, calling it “long overdue” and “a must-watch for any guitar enthusiast.”
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Blackmore’s music, this documentary promises to be an immersive journey into the mind and music of one of rock’s most reclusive legends.
Leave a Reply