The Dark Wizard
2026 · HBO · 60 min · 1 season
S01E04 · Transcending Human Limitations
Wed, 6 May, 11:00 am
With a new relationship grounding him, Dean regains emotional stability and his long-held dream of flight comes to fruition when he immerses himself in the cutting-edge world of wingsuit flying.
About
The Dark Wizard is an up-close and unflinching portrait of Dean Potter, one of the world's most influential and controversial climbers, BASE jumpers, and highline walkers. The series traces the jaw‑dropping feats that made him a legend, as well as the personal turmoil that defined his life.
From an early age, Dean grappled with inner demons that led him to seek the limits of human possibility. Climbing became his outlet and Yosemite National Park became the canvas for his unique talent and artistic expression. As his accomplishments on El Capitan and Half Dome elevated him to hero status in the adventure sports world, his mental state began to fracture and his fierce competitive drive pushed him to try to outdo both himself and others, including rising star Alex Honnold. Ultimately, it was wingsuiting and his lifelong desire to fly that would prove to be his riskiest and most transcendent endeavor.
Episodes
- E01
The Death Consequence
Wed, 15 Apr· 60 minDean Potter finds joy and escape through his early success at extreme climbing, where he connects with a community of like-minded people seeking the sport's freedom and adrenaline. A renegade by nature, Dean's restless energy compels him to pioneer new ascents and forge new world records, even while at times falling afoul of the establishment and struggling with personal relationships.
- E02
Dying to Flying
Wed, 22 Apr· 65 minDean struggles with his inner demons but seems to find relief through death-defying feats from free-soloing, to highlining, to BASE jumping, cultivating a devoted following drawn to his rebellious antihero image. But soon, a new climber named Alex Honnold emerges and threatens to eclipse Dean's dominance.
- E03
This Is Art, This Is Spirituality
Wed, 29 Apr· 60 minThe rivalry between Dean and Alex Honnold intensifies as both climbers vie to be the first to free solo a route on the 3000 foot El Capitan. As Dean's mental state deteriorates, he alienates his inner-circle and accepts a dangerous career opportunity in China.
- E04
Transcending Human Limitations
Wed, 6 May· 60 minWith a new relationship grounding him, Dean regains emotional stability and his long-held dream of flight comes to fruition when he immerses himself in the cutting-edge world of wingsuit flying.
