In a revealing and occasionally tense interview, Louis Theroux, the acclaimed documentary-maker, opens up about his latest Netflix project, personal struggles, and the complexities of his craft. Known for his immersive explorations of subcultures, Theroux now tackles the controversial world of the manosphere in his documentary Inside the Manosphere, set to debut on Netflix.
A Prickly Exchange
Standing in the rain outside Netflix's London offices, journalist Charlotte Edwardes reflects on an interview that felt off-kilter. Theroux, 55, appeared testy and prickly when faced with typical profile questions, leaving her baffled. Despite his reputation as a good guy who skewers bad guys, the encounter prompted her to replay the tape, seeking clarity.
The Grandmaster of Documentary
Theroux, son of writer Paul Theroux, has built a 30-year career by immersing himself in American subcultures like Nazis, gun enthusiasts, and porn stars. His work evolved to include prisoners, opioid addicts, and the Church of Scientology. A defining moment was his interview with Jimmy Savile, where he tentatively asked about paedophilia allegations, showcasing his fearless approach.
Recently, Theroux ventured into podcasts, gaining viral fame with his 2000 rap Jiggle Jiggle, which resonated on TikTok. However, controversy struck when his interview with musician Bobby Vylan led to British Airways pausing sponsorship due to discussions on Israel and Gaza. Theroux defended the interview, emphasizing his commitment to difficult conversations.
Inside the Manosphere
His new Netflix documentary delves into the manosphere, a network of content creators promoting extreme misogyny and ultra-masculinity. Theroux calls it the "final boss subject" of his career, linking it to themes like the far right and conspiracy theories. He notes overlaps with Savile's rhetoric, such as demeaning views on women.
Theroux's interest was piqued by his sons' exposure to such content online. He profiles figures like HSTikkyTokky, Sneako, and Myron Gaines, who espouse "red pilling" ideologies. The documentary captures toxic exchanges, including Gaines insulting women on his show, highlighting the movement's misogyny under the guise of "loving women."
Navigating the Terrain
Theroux aims for a challenging watch, avoiding simplistic condemnation. He explores the vulnerability behind manosphere figures, noting how trauma, like Andrew Tate's abusive childhood, shapes their outlook. The documentary also examines the commercial grift, with influencers selling fitness products and crypto schemes.
In January, a group of these influencers, including Sneako and the Tate brothers, were filmed singing along to a Nazi salute song in Miami, marking a new low. Theroux felt a journalistic relief that his story remained relevant, underscoring the movement's growing influence.
Personal Reflections
When probed about his upbringing, Theroux grew irritable, deflecting questions about his competitive family dynamics and his parents' marriage, which involved infidelities. He described his childhood home as academically brilliant but emotionally complex, with teasing as a common feature.
He attended Westminster School, which he joked gave him a "charming veneer," though he downplayed its role in his career. His rise began when Michael Moore discovered him at 23, leading to a career marked by personal struggles, including a divorce and subsequent marriage to Nancy Strang, with whom he has three sons.
Emotional Vulnerability
Theroux discussed his emotional life, admitting he rarely cries but can over relationship issues. He shared a poignant moment dropping his eldest son at university, feeling like a "demographic" rather than an individual. His alopecia, which caused hair loss, made him reflect on masculinity and "sexual market value," tying back to manosphere themes.
He avoids therapy despite his mother being a therapist, joking about self-diagnosing various conditions. Open about drug use, he supports cannabis legalisation but evaded questions on cocaine. His fascination with a fitness tracker reveals a quirky side, as he obsesses over sleep scores and health metrics.
The Art of Interviewing
Theroux conceded that one-on-one interviews are more challenging than documentaries, requiring quick thinking. He cited Nietzsche on lying, noting that evasiveness often reveals truth through body language. When asked about his earnings, he mocked the question, highlighting the difficulty of turning the tables on an interviewer.
Ultimately, Theroux remains committed to exploring dark subjects, from the manosphere to historical abuses. His work continues to provoke and challenge, cementing his place in British broadcasting as a fearless conversationalist.
