Jessie Diggins, an accomplished cross-country skier from the United States, recently shared her journey in the newly released documentary “Threshold,” which chronicles her struggles with an eating disorder while achieving remarkable success in her sport. The film, set to premiere nationally after the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, highlights Diggins’ resilience and advocacy for mental health awareness among athletes.
Two years prior, Diggins faced a significant relapse regarding her eating disorder, which she revealed publicly. However, the extent of her struggle has only now come to light. During the competition season, at a critical juncture, she underwent a body composition scan in Norway. According to her coach, Jason Cork, the results were alarming enough that the U.S. Ski Team considered preventing her from racing. The film, directed by young filmmakers and fellow Minnesota natives Torsten and Lars Brinkema, captures this difficult period for Diggins and her subsequent path to recovery through familial support.
Throughout her life, Diggins has been an outspoken supporter of understanding and addressing eating disorders, sharing her journey in her autobiography “Brave Enough.” She has emphasized the importance of dialogue surrounding these issues, aiming to inspire both individuals and coaches to seek and provide necessary resources for athlete care. “I’m willing to put my story on the line to help change this,” she stated during a news conference before the Olympics. “I hope that it inspires people to have really critical conversations that can end up actually saving lives.”
The documentary’s narrative intertwines Diggins’ athletic triumphs with her personal challenges, offering insight into the often-hidden struggles that elite athletes endure. Despite battling her eating disorder, Diggins achieved podium finishes in major competitions, highlighting the profound impact of her condition on her performance. Coaches revealed that Diggins had previously confided her ability to mask her struggles, underscoring the importance of open communication in sports environments.
The Brinkema brothers, who have been dedicated to the project for three years, depict Diggins with warmth and authenticity, crafting a cinematic perspective of an athlete who is not only a champion but also a role model for many. With contributions from well-known figures in the skiing world, including actor Patrick Dempsey as an executive producer, the filmmakers are excited about sharing Diggins’ story with a broader audience, hoping it sparks necessary conversations.
“Threshold” will be available for streaming on Peacock, with plans for a theatrical release at the World Cup races in Lake Placid, New York. The film aims to raise awareness of eating disorders while celebrating the power of community and support in overcoming adversity. Through her journey, Diggins continues to shine as an inspiring figure in the sporting world, reminding all that struggles can lead to significant triumphs.