Iommi: The Godfather of Heavy Metal docuseries streams worldwide
Gibson Films, the studio focused on original, artist-driven storytelling that celebrates music history and instruments, announced the worldwide premiere of Iommi: The Godfather of Heavy Metal. Volume One, the first installment of this limited docuseries, is now streaming exclusively on Gibson TV throughout 2026.
The series traces Tony Iommi’s journey from the working-class streets of Birmingham, England, to stages around the globe. It chronicles his early life, the formation of Black Sabbath, and the creation of genre-defining riffs that reshaped rock and inspired generations of heavy music artists.
Tony Iommi’s influence and the star-studded lineup
Volume One highlights Iommi’s immense influence through interviews with the guitarist himself and a star-studded lineup of peers, including Brian May, Slash, Zakk Wylde, Yungblud, Scott Ian, John 5, Phil Anselmo, and Blackie Lawless. Appearances also include Tom Morello, Troy Van Leeuwen, and Birmingham icons Rob Halford and Justin Broadrick.
The docuseries examines how Iommi’s innovations and Black Sabbath’s groundbreaking work continue to reverberate across musical styles and generations. It positions Iommi and his band as the architects of one of the most enduring and influential genres in modern music history.
Celebrating the godfather of heavy metal
“I’m very grateful to Gibson for this new documentary series and for honouring my role in the story of heavy metal,” Iommi said. “Hearing the kind words from so many incredible artists is really humbling. Thank you all for telling the story with such heart—and to the fans who’ve kept it alive. Long may it continue!”
Cesar Gueikian, President and CEO of Gibson, said: “Tony Iommi is the godfather of heavy metal—the creator, the sonic architect, the rifflord who started it all. It’s an incredible honor for all of us at Gibson to pay tribute to Tony with this epic release.”
Mark Agnesi, Director of Brand Experience at Gibson, added: “No matter what regional metal scene or subgenre we explored, every artist we interviewed always pointed the finger back to Tony. He is the Riff Lord!!!!”
Todd Harapiak, Media Director at Gibson and producer of the series, said: “Tony Iommi remains the undisputed godfather of heavy metal. Through his iconic riffs and uncompromising vision, he gave birth to a sound rooted in darkness that became the foundation for generations of musicians. The Godfather of Heavy Metal not only celebrates Iommi and Black Sabbath but also shines a light on the countless bands who carried their torch forward.”
Parents hated it. Their kids loved it. As the Summer of Love faded, an ominous new sound rose from Birmingham. Tony Iommi was its architect, creating riffs that became a musical language uniting millions through rebellion, passion, and a relentless sound that refuses to fade.
