Musician Noah Kahan, currently riding a wave of immense success, recently sat down with Collider's Steve Weintraub alongside director Nick Sweeney at SXSW 2026 to discuss his compelling new documentary, "Noah Kahan: Out of Body." The interview delved into how the documentary process changed Kahan, the evolution of his writing since the success of "Stick Season," and the intricate details of the film's production.

Kahan's career has seen a meteoric rise, highlighted by the complete sell-out of his entire North American 2026 tour, a significant feat in today's competitive music industry. Following the explosion of his 2022 hit song "Stick Season," Kahan embarked on his first major tour, "The Great Divide," which is set to commence in June. Despite the overwhelming demand, Kahan expressed genuine surprise and immense gratitude, acknowledging the economic challenges facing fans and the high cost of concert tickets. He emphasized that his happiness isn't solely tied to selling out venues but rather to the continued dedication of his fanbase, stating, "I'm incredibly grateful. I'm very, very fortunate for my fans. They're just so, so dedicated to this, and I do it all for them."

Alongside his touring commitments, Kahan has been deeply involved in the creation of "Noah Kahan: Out of Body," a powerful documentary that premiered at SXSW. Directed by Nick Sweeney, the film sees Kahan candidly open up about his personal struggles with disordered eating and body dysmorphia. The documentary doesn't shy away from the complex and often challenging journey of recovery, offering an authentic portrayal of his experiences. Kahan described the filming process as "cathartic," ultimately changing him and helping him to become more present.

Director Nick Sweeney shared his initial attraction to Kahan's "cinematic" musical style and the collaborative effort behind the documentary. The filming process was characterized by a very small and tight-knit crew, often just Sweeney, producer Sam Mustari, and filmmakers Henry Allison and Asher Brown (who happened to be Kahan's high school classmates). This intimate setting fostered trust, allowing Kahan to delve deep into personal topics without holding back. Sweeney recounted how Kahan's vulnerability ensured that "nothing was off limits," leading to a truly personal and impactful film.

The documentary's editing aimed to capture the "bipolarity" of a touring artist's life, juxtaposing the immense energy of sold-out shows in massive venues with the quiet solitude of everyday life. Sweeney highlighted a moment where, after a performance at Fenway, Kahan was seen helping his mother with chores, with only the sounds of nature in the background. Kahan resonated with this depiction, noting that it beautifully captured the "silence in the noise" that often defines a musician's experience, a contrast rarely shown.

Kahan also teased the release of his new album on April 24, which shares thematic ties with the documentary. He described its creation as a "difficult and challenging process" creatively, influenced by the pressures and lifestyle changes he experienced. However, he also found a renewed connection with himself through it, hoping fans will find a similar connection in the music. Sweeney echoed this sentiment, expressing his hope that both the film and the album inspire people to reach out to loved ones.

A significant aspect of Kahan's advocacy is "The Busyhead Project," a commendable initiative dedicated to raising awareness and funds for mental health organizations. Inspired by his family's open dialogue about mental health and access to treatment, Kahan sought to support those without such privileges. The project has remarkably raised $6.5 million in three and a half years, primarily by highlighting and supporting "boots-on-the-ground" organizations that are directly helping people. Kahan regards this as the most fulfilling endeavor of his career.

Beyond his profound work, Kahan also shared glimpses into his personality. As a true New Englander, he revealed his specific Dunkin' Donuts order: two glazed sticks and a coffee with no cream, a preference driven by the inconsistency of cream levels. He also enjoys performing cover songs, having recently dedicated an entire festival night to reimagining beloved tracks with his band, striving to make them uniquely his while honoring the original artist. An avid soccer fan, he admitted to seeking autographs from players like Alexi Lalas, showcasing a grounded and relatable side to his persona. "Noah Kahan: Out of Body" is set to premiere globally on Netflix on April 13, offering viewers an intimate look into the life and struggles of a celebrated artist.