Willie Nelson Presents: King of the Roadies

Willie Nelson and friends share stories of the enigmatic Texan, Ben Dorcy (aka Lovey), an unsung hero who shaped American music history, pioneered an entire profession as the world’s first roadie, and rivaled time itself to keep the show on the road.

A true story about the unreal life of an unsung country music hero. Ben Dorcy, aka Lovey, the first and oldest roadie, is recognized by the cultural icons who depend on him just as he’s losing his independence. Having outlived all his relatives, Ben learns he can rely on his music family. Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Knoxville, Kinky Friedman, Jamey Johnson, Ann-Margret, and more come together to honor this legend among legends who, unbeknownst to many, shaped Texas and American music history. “King of the Roadies” celebrates all who work to keep the wheels turning behind-the-scenes; and reminds us that with spirit, passion and perseverance, our best days may still be ahead of us if we continue doing what we love. “It’s one thing to have a bunch of good ideas, but to make them work and to put them into action, you need someone like Ben to do it, and he never failed.” – Willie Nelson

• Release date
• April 27, 2025
• Runtime
• 86 min
• Genres
• Music, Documentary, History
• Director
• Amy Lee Nelson

Cast

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Ben Dorcy Self (archive footage) Willie Nelson Self Johnny Cash Self (archive footage) Waylon Jennings Self (archive footage) Kris Kristofferson Self (archive footage)

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Jamey Johnson Self

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Jessi Colter Self (archive footage) Merle Haggard Self (archive footage)