Meet The McNamara’s, the first family of big wave surfing. Garrett McNamara is one of the world’s premier big wave surfers; wife Nicole is a top big wave spotter; Nicole’s brother CJ rides the big waves, too. Now, son Barrel is (perhaps) on the path following in dad’s footsteps. If season 1 of HBO’s enthralling docuseries “!00 Foot Wave” was all about the pursuit of that illusive triple digit milestone, season 2 digs deeper into the rich and complex personalities who make up the elite big wave surfing community. 

Joining Ken to discuss season 2 is Executive Producer Joe Lewis  (“Fleabag”, “Transparent”) – making his second appearance on Top Docs  – and Nicole McNamara, one of the series’ featured participants. How did Joe and director Chris Smith (“Tiger King”, “American Movie”) go about choosing new people to feature in season 2? What was it like for Nicole to confront major health issues during a very difficult pregnancy while husband Garrett seemed more focused on the big waves than on her? And how did cinematographer Karl Sandrock become an adjunct member of this unique family? 

“100 Foot Wave, Season 2” is currently streaming on Max.

After you enjoy our conversation, be sure to check out the HBO Original 100 Foot Wave Podcast, which features Nicole as host interviewing many of the series’ standout characters (Top Doc’s own Mike and Ken served as Consulting Producers).

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