HBO’s Tina Turner documentary drew more than 1.1 million viewers across all network platforms during its Saturday night debut.
The Wrap reports Tina is the top documentary debut so far for streaming service HBO Max.
Over the course of the authorized two-hour documentary, audiences get a glimpse of Turner’s life, including her tough childhood, an abusive marriage to former musical partner Ike Turner, and her solo career starting in the mid-1980s.
Tina features intimate interviews with Turner in Zurich, Switzerland, as well as sit-downs with some of the people who know the “What’s Love Got to Do with It” singer best.
Related Story: Tina Turner Details Cancer Battle and PTSD in New Documentary
One of the interview subjects is John Carter, who some consider the Capitol Records producer, songwriter and A&R representative who helped turn Turner’s career around in the ‘80s.
He gave a shocking revelation halfway through the documentary—that an executive at Capitol once called the “Proud Mary” singer “an old ni–er douchebag.”
Carter recalls in Tina, “The new regime comes in and like any new regime, they have their own idea of what they want to do. So I flip out, go downstairs and I say, hey, this is my act. And the classic quote is, ‘Carter, you signed this old ni–er douchebag?’”
Despite being doubted in the past, the Grammy-winning performer is one of the most celebrated female artists in rock music. The 81-year-old star now wants to step away, and is using Tina as a way to go out on a high note.
The documentary culminates with Turner talking about her latest career triumphs, including getting a standing ovation during the opening night of “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical.” Viewers also see how Turner found a loving and healthy relationship in her second marriage to former music executive Erwin Bach.
Tina is currently streaming on HBO Max and airing on HBO. Watch a trailer for the documentary below:
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