From Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Netflix Filmmaker Who Transformed Their Life After a Year with a Millionaire Chasing Immortality!

For the past two years, tech entrepreneur and self-proclaimed biohacker Bryan Johnson has been making waves, not just for his business acumen but for his radical lifestyle in pursuit of eternal youth. Known as the millionaire on a mission to defy aging, Johnson's extreme measures—ranging from adhering to a 1,950-calorie daily diet to undergoing controversial anti-aging treatments—have sparked both intrigue and controversy. Now, his unusual quest for immortality takes center stage in a new Netflix documentary, Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever, premiering on January 1.

The project, directed by Chris Smith—renowned for Netflix hits such as Tiger King and Fyre—offers an intimate look into the life of a man who views aging as the ultimate adversary. What began as Smith’s passing curiosity about Johnson’s headline-grabbing antics turned into a yearlong exploration of the man, his methods, and the broader implications of his quest.

A Year in the Life of a Biohacker

“This started with me reading an article about Bryan and wondering, ‘Who is this guy?’” Smith shared in an interview with Variety. “That initial curiosity led me to spend 12 months following his journey, talking to experts, and understanding what it means to live longer and healthier.”

The documentary chronicles Johnson's regimented daily life, which revolves around a strict diet, a calculated supplement regimen, and extreme therapies such as blood plasma transfusions. Johnson even made headlines when it was revealed that his teenage son had donated blood plasma to him—a move that raised eyebrows and ignited ethical debates.

While Johnson’s methods have drawn criticism for being outlandish or elitist, Don’t Die seeks to explore both sides of the conversation, delving into the science behind his approach as well as the ethical dilemmas it raises. Experts interviewed for the film weigh in on the broader implications of anti-aging science, from its accessibility to its impact on our understanding of health and mortality.

The "Don’t Die" Philosophy: A Ripple Effect

Interestingly, Smith himself was influenced by Johnson’s philosophy over the course of filming. “I don’t follow Bryan’s extreme biohacking routines, but I’ve definitely adopted some of the basics,” Smith admitted. “A year later, I drink less, go to bed earlier, and wear an Oura ring to track my sleep quality. It’s a reminder that small changes can make a big difference.”

While Smith has steered clear of Johnson’s more unconventional practices—such as his infamous “anti-aging desserts” or cocktails of supplements—he has embraced evidence-based habits like prioritizing consistent sleep. Smith emphasizes the importance of getting at least seven hours of quality sleep per night, supported by wind-down routines that signal the body to relax. He notes how better sleep contributes to reduced risks of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, offering a practical takeaway for viewers.

The Role of Sleep in Longevity

As highlighted in the documentary, proper sleep hygiene is one of the cornerstones of healthy aging. Studies have consistently shown that insufficient or poor-quality sleep can lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases, accelerated aging, and premature mortality. Smith uses his personal experiences to champion this simple yet impactful habit. “I’m not trying to live forever, but I do see the value in being healthier for as long as possible,” he said.

Devices like sleep trackers, such as the Oura ring, are gaining popularity among health-conscious individuals, particularly within executive circles. These gadgets provide insights into sleep cycles, heart rate variability, and overall readiness, helping users optimize their daily routines for maximum benefit.

The Broader Conversation Around Biohacking

The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the controversies surrounding biohacking, including its exclusivity and ethical considerations. Johnson’s expensive lifestyle raises questions about the accessibility of such practices for the average person. Additionally, his plasma transfusion treatments have sparked debates about the moral implications of using others’ biological materials to enhance one’s own health.

Experts interviewed in Don’t Die provide a balanced perspective, acknowledging the breakthroughs biohacking could bring to healthcare while cautioning against the risks of glorifying extreme methods. The documentary ultimately invites viewers to reflect on their own approaches to health and longevity, offering insights that are both thought-provoking and practical.

A New Year, A New Conversation on Aging

As Don’t Die premieres on Netflix to kick off the new year, it’s likely to reignite conversations around the ever-evolving relationship between science, health, and aging. For Bryan Johnson, the quest to live forever is deeply personal, yet it mirrors humanity’s broader fascination with defying time.