Bryan Fogel

Bryan Fogel is a filmmaker, writer, and producer known for his investigative documentaries that expose global corruption and human rights abuses. He gained international recognition with "Icarus" in 2017, a documentary that began as an exploration of doping in sports but evolved into a shocking exposé of Russia’s state-sponsored doping program. The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and played a key role in uncovering one of the biggest scandals in Olympic history, leading to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) historic ban on Russia from the 2018 Winter Olympics.

"ICARUS" not only brought Netflix its first Oscar, but the film also received the inaugural Special Jury Orwell Award at the Sundance Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award at Sundance London. The documentary earned numerous other accolades, including the 2018 Edward R. Murrow Award for outstanding journalism, a BAFTA nomination, three Primetime Emmy nominations, a Critic’s Choice Award, and a Directors Guild of America nomination for Fogel as Best Director.

Following "Icarus," Fogel directed 2020's "The Dissident," which examined the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the involvement of the Saudi government. Praised for its fearless journalism and gripping storytelling, the documentary was critically acclaimed and highlighted issues of press freedom and authoritarianism.

Fogel initially pursued a career in Hollywood through stand-up comedy and acting. Alongside Sam Wolfson, he co-wrote and initially starred in the off-Broadway comedy "Jewtopia." This play, which humorously explored the dating lives of two young men seeking Jewish partners, became one of the longest-running and fastest-recouping productions in off-Broadway history. Additionally, Fogel co-authored the book "Jewtopia: The Chosen Guide for the Chosen People" and directed, co-wrote, and produced the feature film adaptation of "Jewtopia," released in 2013. The film was honored with the audience choice award at the 2012 Malibu International Film Festival.