Aaron Rodgers is delving into his upbringing and its impact on his emotional development in his new Netflix documentary, Aaron Rodgers: Enigma. The three-part series, set to premiere on Dec. 17, offers an intimate look at the NFL star’s life, addressing both his public controversies and personal struggles.
In an exclusive clip shared with PEOPLE, Rodgers, 41, opens up about how his father’s stoicism shaped his ability to express emotions.
Exploring Emotional Barriers Through Ayahuasca
The clip begins with Rodgers participating in an ayahuasca ceremony, a practice he has publicly embraced despite widespread criticism. Dressed in a white tank top and sweatpants, Rodgers is surrounded by ceremonial rituals as he explains the significance of the psychedelic experience.
“I think part of the real joy in this work is that there is such a feminine spirit to ayahuasca,” Rodgers says. He believes the experience helps redefine traditional notions of masculinity. “It allows users to model a new way of thinking about masculinity or what it means to be a man.”
Rodgers describes ayahuasca as a tool for achieving balance between the “divine masculine and divine feminine.” For him, this balance is integral to emotional growth, vulnerability, and understanding.
RELATED: Aaron Rodgers Hints at Controversial Cause Behind Jets’ Prolonged Playoff Drought
Reflecting on His Father’s Stoicism
Rodgers attributes his “stunted emotional intelligence” to his father, Ed Rodgers, and the emotional environment in which he grew up. The quarterback recalls only one instance of seeing his father cry.
“I think I saw my dad cry when my grandfather passed. And that might have been it,” Rodgers reveals. He explains that emotions were rarely expressed in his household. “There wasn’t space for emotion. So, I definitely had some stunted emotional intelligence.”
This reflection sheds light on the quarterback’s long-standing effort to develop a deeper emotional awareness, a journey he describes as vital to becoming a well-rounded individual.
Peeling Back Layers of Public Perception
Rodgers acknowledges that public perception of him is often shaped by misconceptions. “People who haven’t been around me a lot have this idea of who I am,” he says. “In these situations, you start to peel back some of those layers of who they think you are, and start getting deep and emotional.”
For Rodgers, emotional vulnerability is a critical part of what it means to be a “well-balanced man.” He emphasizes that tapping into the “divine feminine” and embracing emotions are key to personal growth and authenticity.
A Documentary That Dives Deep
Aaron Rodgers: Enigma doesn’t shy away from the quarterback’s most polarizing moments, from his controversial use of psychedelics to his outspoken views on various topics. The series also explores pivotal events in Rodgers’ career, including the Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season with the New York Jets.
In the trailer, viewers see commentary about whether Rodgers should consider retirement, a recurring topic in recent years. The series, directed by Gotham Chopra and Liam Hughes, promises to offer an unfiltered look at Rodgers’ journey—on and off the field.
A Look Into the Mind of an NFL Star
Rodgers’ decision to participate in the documentary underscores his willingness to confront personal and professional challenges. From his complicated relationship with his family to his exploration of spirituality and emotional intelligence, the series aims to give viewers a deeper understanding of the man behind the headlines.
Aaron Rodgers: Enigma premieres on Netflix on Dec. 17, offering fans and critics alike a chance to see a more introspective side of the NFL icon.
