“Untold: The Liver King” (2025) / Z-View

Untold: The Liver King (2025)

Director:  Joe Pearlman

Tagline: None.

The Plot…

This documentary looks at the rise and fall of Brian Johnson aka The Liver King.  Johnson became an influencer who promoted what he called an “ancestral lifestyle”.  Johnson said that by eating large amounts of raw meat and organs, specifically liver, one would become healthier with much more energy.

Johnson claimed that he was undersized as a kid and often bullied.  His research into a healthier lifestyle led him to his understanding of a diet that made our ancestors strong.   Johnson repeatedly denied ever using steroids.  He claimed that his muscles came from eating raw meat and exercise.  Johnson started a supplement company based around based around eating raw meat and his nine “ancestral tenets”.  He made millions.

Later it came to light that Brian Johnson was a liar.  He not only regularly used multiple steroids and testosterone, but was spending over $10,000.00 a month on pharmaceuticals.  Johnson’s reputation was shot.  His subscribers base dwindled and he was named in a class action suit for $25 million for his deception.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

I had never heard of The Liver King before this documentary.  If anyone ever came off as a snake oil salesman, it is Brian Johnson.

Untold: The Liver King (2025) rates 3 of 5 stars