The Struggle Behind the Smile: New Documentary ‘Threshold’ Premieres Feb 23
I’m excited to announce the upcoming premiere of Threshold, a powerful feature documentary chronicling the life of Olympic legend Jessie Diggins. The film will debut on Peacock on Monday, February 23rd, strategically timed to coincide with the Winter Olympic Games. (EG PR, 2026)
At a Glance
- Premiere Date: Monday, February 23rd on Peacock
- Directed by: Lars Brinkema and Torsten Brinkema
- Featuring: Jessie Diggins
- Executive Producers: Torsten Brinkema, Patrick Dempsey
- Music by: Julianna Barwick & Mary Lattimore
- Running Time: 85 minutes
The Story: Beyond the Gold
Threshold is the story of the most decorated American cross-country skier ever, Jessie Diggins, and the painful fight with an eating disorder that occurred at the very peak of her career.
This is more than a sports story; it is a visceral, human account of vulnerability and recovery unfolding in real-time. Through unprecedented access to Jessie and the U.S. Ski Team, the film explores a disorder that often hides in plain sight, yet remains tragically misunderstood in professional athletics.
A Season Lived in Real-Time
The film unfolds over a single, high-stakes season, intercutting present-day vérité footage with decisive moments from Jessie’s past. It traces how a relentless pursuit of perfection led her to believe that controlling her body mass was the only key to success.
From grueling races above the Arctic Circle to the first World Cup on American snow in over 25 years, the documentary tracks the mounting pressure of elite sport. Ultimately, Threshold is a film about hope, proving that relapse is not failure and asking for help is not a weakness.
About the Subjects
Jessie Diggins | Olympic Gold Medalist
A three-time Olympic medalist, Jessie is known for her legendary ability to enter the “Pain Cave” during the closing moments of the world’s most grueling races. As the reigning two-time World Champion, she will compete in an extraordinary six different events at the 2026 Olympic Games.
Off the snow, Jessie is a fierce advocate for:
- Mental Health: Managing and speaking openly about eating disorder recovery.
- Sustainability: Raising awareness about the effects of global warming on winter sports.
- Resilience: Sharing her experience on teamwork and mental toughness.
Lars Brinkema | Director & Cinematographer
Based in Los Angeles, Lars Brinkema began his career in photojournalism documenting the Minneapolis community’s resilience following the murder of George Floyd. His award-winning short, I Pray, set the stage for his feature directorial debut with Threshold.
When Jessie entrusted Lars with her story, the project became a personal mission rooted in his commitment to intimate, character-driven storytelling that fosters genuine social change.
“By allowing herself to be seen, Jessie offers something rare to those living in silence: proof that you can reclaim your health and your dreams.”
SA Examiner 