Did They Make a Movie About JB Mauney? There is a short documentary about Mouney titled “No regrets: JB Mouney” (2021), which explores his exploits and perspective on bull riding. Find out if Hollywood has made a movie about JB Mauney’s life, including documentaries, his legacy, and future biopic possibilities. Discover the story of the dragon slayer beyond the arena.
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The Myth and the Man
JB Mauney, known as the “Dragon Slayer”, is widely regarded as one of the greatest bull riders of all time. With two Professional Bull Riders (PBR) World Championships (2013 and 2015) and a career spanning nearly two decades, Mauney’s name is synonymous with fearlessness and resilience. His legacy includes iconic moments, such as being one of only three riders to conquer the legendary Bull Bush Whacker and earning over $7.6 million in career prize money. Given his storied career and dramatic exit after a neck-breaking injury in 2023, many fans are wondering: Did Hollywood make a movie about JB Mauney? This article explores the truth behind Mauney’s cinematic representation, current documentaries, potential biopics, and why her story resonates with audiences across the country.
The Short Answer: Documentaries Yes, Feature Films Not Yet
As of 2025, no full-length film has been produced about the life of JB Mouney. However, Mauney has been the subject of several documentaries and mini-movies that capture his career and personality:
- “No Regrets: JB Mauney” (2021): This award-winning mini-documentary, produced by Monster Energy, chronicles Mauney’s mindset, accomplishments and bull riding approach. It includes highlights from his PBR career and reflections on his retirement.
- “The Ride” (2010): A more expansive documentary about the PBR circuit, featuring Mauney alongside other top riders. It shows the intensity of professional bull riding but it’s not just focused on Mauney.
- Recent coverage: Mauney’s life after retirement, including his coaching role with the Oklahoma Wildcatters, has been covered in interviews and articles, such as a 2025 feature in Cowboys & Indians magazine.
Why No Biopic Yet? The Complexities of Adapting a Living Legend
1. Recent Retirement and Ongoing Legacy
Mauney only retired in 2023 after a devastating injury at a PRCA rodeo in Lewiston, Idaho, where a bull named Arctic Assassin broke his neck. Unlike historical figures whose stories are complete, Mauney’s legacy is still unfolding. When he moved on to coach the Oklahoma Wildcats in 2024, his narrative expanded beyond the riding, making him a moving target for filmgoers.
2. Hollywood’s Focus on Completed Arcs
Biographical films often prefer closed-loop stories, such as the life and death of Lane Frost (portrayed in the 1994 classic 8 Seconds). Mauney’s story, while dramatic, lacks the finality that traditionally attracts studio interest. However, his resilience – such as owning the Arctic Assassin, the bull that ended his career – adds a unique twist that could influence future scripts.
3. Mauney’s Authenticity vs. Dramatization
Mooney’s charming, no-nonsense personality (“If you want to be the best, you’ve got to ride the best”) is both a strength and a challenge to adapt to. Well-documented in interviews and short films, her authenticity is a must for any actor aiming to portray her.
Case Study: How Lane Frost’s Story Set the Standard
To understand the possibilities of a Mauney biopic, it is instructive to review the 2025 documentary LANE: Life Legend Legacy, which explores Frost’s impact on rodeo culture. Frost’s story, including his 1987 world championship and tragic death in 1989, was immortalized in 8 Seconds, giving him iconic status. Key lessons from the film Mouni include:
- Character Emphasis: Frost was celebrated for his kindness and humility, traits Mauney carried over to his mentoring of young riders.
- Family and Faith: Frost’s personal struggles, including his wife’s miscarriage, added depth to his story. Mauney’s role as a father and husband can similarly humanize him on screen.
- Cultural Resonance: Frost’s legacy has influenced the “Cowboy Bible” and grassroots rodeo schools. Mauney’s coaching career and bull riding advocacy may have served as a similar catalyst.
Expert Opinions: What Filmmakers and Rodeo Insiders Say
- Paul Taublieb, director of “No Regrets: J.B. Mauney”: Taublieb’s documentary highlights Mauney’s mental toughness and willingness to take on the toughest bulls. The perspective could form the basis of a future biopic.
- Justin McBride, two-time PBR World Champion: McBride calls Mauney “the best bull rider of his generation,” a testament to his aptitude for dramatic portrayals.
- Industry Trends: The success of faith-based sports dramas such as The Last Rodeo (2025), which emphasize family and redemption, suggests a market for Mauney’s story.
The Future: Could a JB Mauney Movie Happen?
Potential Angles for a Biopic
- Dragon Slayer Narrative: Focusing on Mauney’s rivalry with bulls like Bushwacker and Asteroid, highlighting his record 75+ 90 point rides.
- Comeback and Tragedy: His recovery from multiple injuries, including a lacerated liver in 2005, resulted in his neck injury and retirement.
- Legacy Building: His post-retirement life as a coach, family man, and steward of the sport.
Challenges to Overcome for Did They Make a Movie About JB Mauney?
- Rights and Involvement: Mauney’s direct involvement will be crucial for authenticity. His focus on coaching could delay any film project.
- Marketability: While rodeo movies have a niche audience, streaming platforms can broaden their appeal, as seen in documentaries like LANE.
The Story Isn’t Over Yet
JB Mauney’s legacy continues to evolve, making the possibility of a biopic a future possibility rather than a present reality. Currently, fans can explore his journey through documentaries like No Regrets: JB Mauney and follow his coaching career with the Oklahoma Wildcatters. As the rodeo world waits for a definitive film, Mauney’s influence remains undeniable – a testament to the courage and resilience that define American bull riding.
To read more, explore the Frost family legacy in the documentary LANE: Life Legend Legacy or watch No Regrets: JB Mauney on Monster Energy’s platforms.