New documentary examines life and career of rugby legend Jonah Lomu
The Guardian Sport • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 7:00 AM
Last updated Sep 6, 2026
A new film exploring the life of All Blacks star Jonah Lomu has been released, providing insight into the athlete's rapid rise to global prominence during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. The project features accounts from figures including former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew, who discusses the physical and personal toll the player faced throughout his career. While the film highlights his athletic achievements, such as his notable performance against England in the 1995 semi-final in Cape Town, it also addresses questions regarding his overall well-being. Production of the documentary proceeded despite legal efforts from Nadene Lomu, the player's widow, to block the release. She ultimately declined to participate in the project.
- •Jonah Lomu gained international recognition at the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
- •Widow Nadene Lomu unsuccessfully attempted to prevent the film's production.
- •Former team doctor John Mayhew provided testimony for the project.
- •The documentary highlights the 1995 semi-final match against England.
- 7:00 AMThe Guardian Sport — ‘It was tough to be Jonah Lomu’: new film sheds light on late All Blacks hero
"New Zealand great made his name at 1995 Rugby World Cup but rapid rise to fame took a toll as his health worsened Making a film about Jonah Lomu’s life was never going to thrill everyone. The big man’s widow, Nadene, took legal action in an unsuccessful attempt to block the project and declined to be involved. You can’t imagine Mike Catt being overly delighted either. Even 31 years later, the brutal footage of Lomu running straight over the top of England’s full-back in the 1995 World Cup semi-final in Cape Town almost merits an 18 certificate on its own. Happily, the makers of Lomu went ahead regardless and have managed to shine a fresh light on the biggest rugby phenomenon in history. There was always way more to Jonah’s story than a huge pair of thighs and here it is, laid out in a manner that is thought-provoking, affecting and wincingly nostalgic. As the former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew puts it: “I’m disappointed he didn’t have the life he deserved to have. I wonder, even [with] the magnificent gifts he had, whether he was ever truly happy.” Continue reading...
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