Directed by Jehane Noujaim and Vikram Gandhi.
Photo credit: HBO – Youtube
HBO has announced the premiere of ‘The Man Will Burn’, a new four-part documentary series exploring the evolution, challenges, and cultural impact of Burning Man. Directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Jehane Noujaim and Vikram Gandhi, the series debuts on July 9th, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max.
Drawing on exclusive access to Burning Man Project leadership and years of archival footage, the documentary follows the organization through a period of significant upheaval. The series examines how the event has evolved from its countercultural beginnings in San Francisco in 1986 into a global gathering that attracts around 80,000 participants each year.
Across four episodes, ‘The Man Will Burn’ documents the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence of the Renegade Burn, debates around commercialization and social media influence, and the unprecedented rainstorms that disrupted the 2023 edition. Central to the story is Burning Man Project CEO Marian Goodell and the community of artists, organizers, founders, and participants working to preserve the event’s original ethos while navigating growing global attention.
The series premieres July 9, with new episodes arriving weekly through July 30.
Watch the trailer below and find more information here.
