Abacus Media Rights to Rep Richard Harris Doc

Abacus Media Rights (AMR) has acquired the new Sky original feature documentary The Ghost of Richard Harris for worldwide distribution.

From Bright Yellow Films, Samson Films and Groove International, The Ghost of Richard Harris delves into the story of the once-famous actor, poet and singer, whose career was overshadowed by a reputation for drinking and riotous behavior. It will air in the U.K. on Sky Arts and streaming service NOW later in 2022.

The Ghost of Richard Harris features Harris’ three sons: BAFTA Award-winning actor Jared Harris (Chernobyl, The Crown), actor Jamie Harris (Carnival Row, West Side Story) and director Damian Harris (Brave the Dark, Wilde Wedding).

Jonathan Ford, managing director at AMR, commented, “This fascinating documentary offers an intriguing and insightful look into the life of a person we all know from his global work and talent. We’re delighted to add this incredible feature to our expanding nonfiction catalog.”

Sibley said, “I had the pleasure of meeting Richard Harris through his son Damian at the Savoy to talk about making a documentary about his life and times. He’d seen my film with Anthony Hopkins where he talked about drinking and thought we’d work well together. Richard took me out for supper, and I had one of the best nights of my life. He was the ultimate storyteller, and everyone in the restaurant stopped to listen to him but I still felt that he was only talking to me. I knew I could make a fascinating film about this unusual man, but unfortunately, soon afterward he became ill and died. Now on the 20th anniversary of his death, using hours of unheard audiotapes of interviews with Richard over many years, I have the opportunity to actually work with him from beyond the grave and make the film we discussed, with him unraveling the story of what he calls ‘a turbulent journey’ of ‘great highs and lows.’ In short, a life that few can even imagine.”

Damian, Jared and Jamie Harris added, “We have been approached several times over the years to participate in various documentaries about our father. We turned them all down because Adrian was the one our father wanted to tell his tale. As sons, we all saw Dad differently, through the lens he allowed us to see him. As a man, he resisted being discovered, jealously guarding his mystery, delighting in his ultimate creation, the character ‘Richard Harris.’ This is a remarkable opportunity for us to re-engage with our father once more, beyond the memories we have or the dreams in which he appears to us. It’s a story told in hindsight, frankly, without sentiment, but always with affection. Like all good mysteries, we don’t know where the story will lead us, but we welcome the chance to embrace the complete man.”