KQED is proud to present Epic Bill, a 56-minute documentary that delves into the extraordinary journey of Bill Bradley, a bankrupt millionaire who reinvents himself as an extreme endurance athlete. The film will premiere on KQED 9 on Friday, September 13th at 8pm, National Positive Thinking Day, and will also be broadcast on public television stations nationwide (check local listings).
Once the owner of a thriving video store empire, Bill Bradley saw his fortune evaporate with the collapse of the industry. Stripped of his former identity and facing bankruptcy, Bill found solace in an unexpected realm: extreme endurance athletics.
A decade later, Bill has accomplished remarkable feats, including a Quadruple Badwater and a world record for running rim to rim through the Grand Canyon seven times. As he approaches his 60th birthday, Bill embarks on his eighth attempt at the Arrowhead 135, one of the world’s toughest cold-weather endurance races, and his second attempt at Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.
In pushing beyond his limits, Bill confronts the internal demons of his past. He faces a critical decision: seek external success or find validation from within.
Epic Bill immerses viewers in the demanding world of endurance sports, showcasing Bill’s rigorous preparation, the physical and mental challenges of the races, and the unwavering support of his family and friends.