National Broadcast Initiative Announced for 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Featuring Man in Red Bandana

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Acclaimed documentary to anchor nationwide television, streaming, and community screening events in September 2026

Tappan, NY — April 24, 2026 — A national broadcast initiative has been announced to commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, featuring the award-winning documentary Man in Red Bandana, which tells the extraordinary true story of Welles Crowther, an inspiring hero of that day.

Planned for September 2026, the initiative will bring Man in Red Bandana to audiences across the United States through a coordinated, multi-platform campaign including national television broadcast, streaming distribution, community screenings and educational outreach programs.

The film chronicles the actions of Crowther, a 24-year-old equities trader working in the South Tower of the World Trade Center, who gave his life saving, at least, 10 people that day. His heroics only became known eight months later as a result of an ordinary item - a red bandana. Welles’ red bandana has become a lasting symbol of courage and selflessness.

“The 25th anniversary represents a profound moment of remembrance and reflection for the nation,” said writer and director Matthew J. Weiss.  “Through Man in Red Bandana, we have an opportunity to share a story that not only honors the past, but also inspires future generations with the values of courage, service, and leadership.”

The national broadcast event on U.S. public television stations is designed to reach a broad and diverse audience, including younger viewers with no direct memory of September 11. In addition to television and streaming distribution, the initiative will include partnerships with schools, universities, civic organizations, and first responder groups to extend the film’s impact beyond the screen.

Organizers are currently inviting corporations, foundations, and institutions to participate as sponsors and partners in the initiative. Sponsors will be recognized across broadcast, digital, and community platforms as supporters of a major national remembrance event marking this historic milestone.

“Stories like this matter more than ever,” said Weiss. “They remind us not only of what was lost, but of the extraordinary humanity that emerged in the face of unimaginable adversity.”

View the trailer for Man in Red Bandana 

About Man in Red Bandana

Man in Red Bandana is a feature-length documentary which tells the story of Welles Crowther through survivor testimonies, archival footage, recreations, computer animations and interviews with family and friends, offering a powerful portrait of heroism and sacrifice. The film is narrated by Gwyneth Paltrow, and features an original song written and performed by Lyle Lovett.

About the 25th Anniversary Broadcast Initiative

The 25th Anniversary Broadcast Initiative is a national effort to commemorate the events of September 11, 2001 through storytelling, education and community engagement. The initiative seeks to reach millions of viewers across the United States and ensure that the legacy of that day continues to inspire future generations.

Contact
Stephen Janson
Janson Media, Inc.
Email: steve@janson.com