Documentary series starring Simone Biles wins two prominent awards

15 November 2024 – A documentary series following US gymnast Simone Biles on her journey to the Olympic Games Paris 2024, produced in association with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Olympic Channel Services, has been recognised with two prestigious Critics Choice Documentary Awards.

Simone Biles Rising, which was produced by Religion of Sports and is available globally on Netflix, chronicles the most decorated gymnast of all time as she prepared to return to the Olympic stage at Paris 2024, following the challenges she faced with her mental health at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

The four-part series, which premiered in July ahead of Paris 2024, was honoured as the Best Sports Documentary and Best Limited Documentary Series at the 9^th Annual Critics Choice Documentary Awards, which were presented during a gala event in New York City in November.

Yiannis Exarchos, Executive Director of Olympic Channel Services, said: “Simone Biles represents the very essence of resilience and determination, embodying the values that make the Olympic Games a source of global inspiration. This collaboration has allowed us to share her powerful journey with audiences, bringing to light the human stories behind the superhuman achievements seen on the Olympic stage.”

It is our privilege to celebrate athletes like Simone who, through their commitment and courage, inspire millions and exemplify the transformative power of sport.

Yiannis Exarchos, Executive Director of Olympic Channel Services

“The IOC is dedicated to connecting with global audiences year-round,” said Jérôme Parmentier, Vice-President of Media Rights and Content Partnerships at the IOC.

Documentaries like Simone Biles Rising form a crucial part of our strategy to deepen the connection between fans and the Olympic Movement, enhancing the anticipation and viewership at Games time on our official broadcast partner platforms.

Jérôme Parmentier, Vice-President of Media Rights and Content Partnerships at the IOC

The Critics Choice Documentary Awards are presented by the Critics’ Choice Association (CCA), recognising the year’s finest achievements in documentaries, as determined by the voting of CCA members.