New Details on the Release of Andy Irons's Documentary

It's been widely understood that Andy Irons faced a lot of inner demons when surfing on the Championship Tour almost a decade ago. But outside his close-knit circle, the details behind his struggles have gone widely unknown -- until now. Today, Teton Gravity Research announced the release date of their newest documentary Andy Irons: Kissed by God.

The late Andy Irons brought a new and unpredictable energy to the WSL Championship Tour (CT) that professional surfing had never seen before and, arguably, hasn't seen since. In addition to his rivalry with Kelly Slater, the "People's Champ" became known around the world for his radical approach. This film attempts to pull back the curtain on some of the issues that Irons faced while in the limelight.

"Andy Irons: Kissed by God is a film about bipolar disorder and opioid addiction as seen through the life of three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons," it reads on the opening line of the trailer, not shying away from any uncomfortable details. "The intent of the film is to show the unfiltered life of Andy Irons, one that was filled with energy, passion, success, and challenges. Challenges that pushed Andy to the brink and were both the best parts of Andy and the hardest to handle."

Three years in the making, friends, family and producers took their time perfecting the film -- attempting to portray his life as accurately as possible. Other than the rumors that ran through the surfing community, Andy Irons: Kissed by God is the first honest account we've seen. Both Lyndie Irons (widow) and Bruce Irons (brother) played large roles in the making of the film. Directors Steve and Todd Jones took it a step further and opted for crowd funding to avoid outside influences from the industry.

"This is not a film about surfing," the website reads. "This is a film about a person that lived life to its fullest at the top of his industry, but did so facing insurmountable internal challenges. This story is about everything that made Andy Irons the man he was."

The world premiere will take place in Los Angeles on May 2 at the Regency Village Theater. Doors open at 7:30. For more ticket information visit: TetonGravity.com.