Mel Brooks Celebrates His Legacy in New Documentary

The HBO documentary "Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man," co-directed by Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio, premiered on January 22, 2026. The film provides an extensive look into the life and career of the legendary comedian Mel Brooks, who recently turned 99. It explores his iconic works, including "Young Frankenstein" and "Blazing Saddles," as well as his personal relationships, particularly with his late wife Anne Bancroft and his longtime friend Carl Reiner.

Judd Apatow Honors Late Rob Reiner at ‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man’ Premiere: ‘It’s an Unfillable Hole’

Mel Brooks is the central figure of the documentary, reflecting on his career and personal life. The film also features significant contributions from the late Rob Reiner, who passed away in December 2025. Reiner's relationship with Brooks and his father, Carl Reiner, is a focal point of the documentary. Judd Apatow highlighted Rob Reiner's impact, stating, “He was an incredible voice... he really dissected it and explained why they were so close.” The Reiner family had a long-standing connection with Brooks, marked by collaboration and friendship.

Judd Apatow Honors Late Rob Reiner at ‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man’ Premiere: ‘It’s an Unfillable Hole’Mel Brooks Says He Looks Back at His Old Work and Sometimes Thinks He Was 'an Arrogant, Stupid Son of a Bitch'Mel Brooks Is 99. He’s Still ‘The Funniest Person Who Ever Lived.’

During a Q&A session following the documentary's premiere, Brooks candidly discussed his feelings about his career. He expressed a mix of pride and self-criticism, stating, “Sometimes I can detach myself and say, ‘That guy's funny,’ and sometimes I could say, ‘What an arrogant, stupid son of a bitch.’” He recounted a moment of despair when he feared his film "The Producers" would fail, only to later achieve critical acclaim.

Mel Brooks Says He Looks Back at His Old Work and Sometimes Thinks He Was 'an Arrogant, Stupid Son of a Bitch'

Brooks also shared his sentiments regarding the deaths of Carl Reiner and Rob Reiner. He fondly remembered Carl as “the sweetest guy that ever lived” and expressed relief that Carl did not have to endure the loss of his son. This personal context adds depth to the documentary, showcasing the emotional bonds that influenced Brooks' life and work.

Judd Apatow Honors Late Rob Reiner at ‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man’ Premiere: ‘It’s an Unfillable Hole’

Looking ahead, Brooks indicated that he remains active in his career, stating he is “busier than I’ve ever been in my life.” He mentioned upcoming projects, including a sequel to "Spaceballs" and a new TV series titled "Very Young Frankenstein." The documentary serves not only as a tribute to his past but also as a testament to his ongoing contributions to comedy.

Mel Brooks Says He Looks Back at His Old Work and Sometimes Thinks He Was 'an Arrogant, Stupid Son of a Bitch'

Judd Apatow emphasized the significance of Rob Reiner's role in the documentary, calling his absence an “unfillable hole.” He noted that Reiner's insights into the friendship between Brooks and Carl Reiner were invaluable to the film's narrative.

Judd Apatow Honors Late Rob Reiner at ‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man’ Premiere: ‘It’s an Unfillable Hole’

• “It’s also really lovely that human beings, per se, like my comedy.” — Mel Brooks

Mel Brooks Is 99. He’s Still ‘The Funniest Person Who Ever Lived.’

• “There was no fake laughter.” — Mel Brooks on Carl Reiner

Mel Brooks Says He Looks Back at His Old Work and Sometimes Thinks He Was 'an Arrogant, Stupid Son of a Bitch'

The documentary "Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man" is currently available for streaming on HBO Max, celebrating the enduring legacy of one of comedy's most influential figures.

Mel Brooks Says He Looks Back at His Old Work and Sometimes Thinks He Was 'an Arrogant, Stupid Son of a Bitch'