Keanu Reeves Celebrates Emmy Win for F1 Documentary Highlighting Jenson Button’s Triumph
Actor Keanu Reeves expressed his excitement and pride as Brawn: The Impossible Formula 1 Story—a documentary he presents—secured the International Emmy for Best Sports Documentary. Calling the project “really extraordinary,” Reeves shared with the PA news agency how the documentary resonated with his lifelong passion for motorsport.
The documentary, available on Disney+ and BBC iPlayer, chronicles the dramatic rise of the underdog Brawn GP team, led by Ross Brawn and Nick Fry, during the 2009 Formula 1 season. Against all odds, the team clinched both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships, with British driver Jenson Button crowned world champion. Reeves interviewed key figures from the historic season, uncovering how Brawn’s ingenuity and determination outshone wealthier rivals.
Reeves’ Connection to F1
Reeves revealed that his love for Formula 1 began in childhood with toy cars and grew into a fascination with the sport’s technical aspects. “I love the pursuit of excellence, the innovation, and just the extraordinariness of the vehicles and the racing,” he said, recalling fond memories of attending a race in Canada as a kid and following legends like Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna.
The actor also expressed excitement about Cadillac joining the F1 grid in 2026, saying, “I love when new teams enter Formula One. It’s exciting, and I’m keen to see how they fare.”
Recognition and Gratitude
Reeves praised Simon Hammerson, the showrunner, for his dedication to the project. Hammerson described the Emmy win as “a tremendous honour,” adding, “It’s lovely to be recognised by our peers for doing something pretty cool.”
Reflecting on the collaborative effort behind the documentary, Reeves said: “I’m just really happy for everyone who was a part of making the documentary and really grateful to everyone who shared their stories.”
A Journey of Innovation and Triumph
The film not only celebrates Button’s personal victory but also highlights the revolutionary technical innovations that propelled Brawn GP to victory. Reeves noted how the project began as a simple idea and evolved into a remarkable narrative about perseverance and success.
While Reeves runs his motorcycle company, Arch Motorcycle, he ruled out any involvement in F1 investment, joking, “Formula One is too rich for me.” However, his enthusiasm for motorsport remains unwavering, especially through his company’s support for motorcycle racers.
Brawn GP’s remarkable journey continues to inspire motorsport enthusiasts, with Reeves helping bring their story to a global audience.