Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of a heartfelt documentary titled “Without You: The Peter Ham Story”, a moving tribute to the late Welsh singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the creative force behind the 1970s rock band Badfinger. The film aims to celebrate Peter Ham’s life, music, and lasting influence on the world of rock and pop. Set for a global premiere on August 23, 2025, the documentary promises a deep dive into both the triumphs and tragedies of one of rock’s most underappreciated talents.
Peter Ham was born in Swansea, Wales, and rose to fame as the lead vocalist and a primary songwriter for Badfinger, a band that gained international success under the guidance of The Beatles’ Apple Records. Known for hits like “No Matter What,” “Day After Day,” and “Baby Blue,” Ham’s songwriting showcased an emotional honesty that resonated with fans across generations. His most famous composition, “Without You,” co-written with bandmate Tom Evans, became a global hit when covered by artists like Harry Nilsson and Mariah Carey.
The documentary will feature never-before-seen footage, rare interviews, and newly restored concert clips that chart Peter Ham’s musical journey from his early days in The Iveys to his complicated rise with Badfinger. Through the voices of family members, former bandmates, industry icons, and modern musicians inspired by his work, “Without You: The Peter Ham Story” offers an intimate look at a man whose music still echoes decades after his passing.
Music takes center stage in the film, with a soundtrack that includes original Badfinger recordings, live sessions, and newly recorded covers by today’s artists. Among the featured tracks are “Come and Get It,” “Perfection,” and a stripped-down acoustic version of “Day After Day” performed by Ed Sheeran. The documentary also includes a special tribute version of “Without You,” sung by Adele, marking a poignant homage to Ham’s songwriting legacy.
The emotional weight of the documentary lies not just in Peter Ham’s talent but in the heartbreaking story of how his life was cut short. Struggles with management, financial disputes, and the pressures of fame weighed heavily on him, ultimately leading to his tragic death at the age of 27. The film doesn’t shy away from these realities but approaches them with sensitivity, aiming to honor the man behind the music.
Director Sarah Donovan, known for her award-winning work on music documentaries, leads the project with a passionate approach. “Peter Ham’s story is one of brilliance, betrayal, and beauty,” Donovan shared in a press statement. “We wanted to show not just what the world lost, but what it gained through his music. He deserves to be remembered not only for his tragic end but for the incredible contributions he made.”
Fans of Badfinger and lovers of 1970s rock will find the documentary both nostalgic and revelatory. Viewers can expect candid insights into the band’s complex relationship with The Beatles and the often-chaotic world of music management in that era. The documentary offers a lens into what might have been, had Peter Ham received the support and recognition he truly deserved during his lifetime.
To support the release, Netflix will also launch a companion playlist on Spotify featuring the full soundtrack, along with a limited-edition vinyl reissue of Badfinger’s Straight Up album. Proceeds from the vinyl sales will go toward mental health charities in the UK and US, a cause close to Ham’s story and legacy.
With its emotional depth, powerful soundtrack, and stunning archival footage, “Without You: The Peter Ham Story” is set to be more than just a documentary—it’s a long-overdue celebration of a musical genius. As audiences prepare to rediscover the voice behind some of rock’s most haunting melodies, Peter Ham’s legacy stands ready to inspire a new generation.
