Chloë Sevigny's New Grateful Dead Documentary Captures Enduring Deadhead Culture

The actor's film "Summer Tour" follows tie-dye-clad fans on the band's final tour in 2023, as the community mourns the loss of co-founder Bob Weir.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Chloë Sevigny, known for her roles in indie films like "Boys Don't Cry" and the HBO series "Big Love," is bringing a new documentary about the Grateful Dead's devoted fanbase, known as Deadheads, to theaters this summer. The film, titled "Summer Tour," follows the tie-dye-clad travelers who trailed Dead & Company on its final tour in 2023, and arrives at a time of grief for the community following the recent death of Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir.

Why it matters

Sevigny's film aims to capture the enduring loyalty and community that has sprung up around the Grateful Dead, even as the band's core members have passed on. The documentary provides a window into the culture of Deadheads, who have followed the band for generations, and explores what keeps them coming back despite the changing times.

The details

"Summer Tour" is less a concert film and more a portrait of the Deadhead culture, according to Sevigny. The movie follows the fans on the band's final tour in 2023 and does not feature any footage of the Grateful Dead or Dead & Company themselves. Sevigny, who has been a Grateful Dead fan since high school, says the film is a "road movie" and a "love letter to America" that showcases the devotion of the band's followers.

  • The film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2025.
  • "Summer Tour" is slated for a multi-city theatrical run this summer (2026).
  • Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir died in January 2026 at the age of 78.

The players

Chloë Sevigny

An Oscar-nominated actor known for her roles in indie films like "Boys Don't Cry" and the HBO series "Big Love." Sevigny has been a lifelong Grateful Dead fan and is helping bring the new documentary "Summer Tour" to audiences.

Mischa Richter

The director of the documentary "Summer Tour," which Sevigny collaborated on.

Bob Weir

A co-founder of the Grateful Dead who passed away in January 2026 at the age of 78, prompting an outpouring of grief from the Deadhead community.

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What they’re saying

“It's such a profound loss. I'm shocked that people aren't still talking about it. I guess the news cycle seems so rapid these days. I'm still sitting with it.”

— Chloë Sevigny (Rolling Stone)

“The film is so beautiful. These kids are so pure, and their love of the Dead is so engaging.”

— Chloë Sevigny (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

"Summer Tour" is slated for a multi-city theatrical run this summer, with screenings paired with performances by artists inspired by the Grateful Dead.

The takeaway

Chloë Sevigny's documentary "Summer Tour" provides a poignant look at the enduring Deadhead community, capturing their devotion to the Grateful Dead's music and culture even as the band's core members have passed on. The film serves as a love letter to the band's loyal fans and the enduring spirit of the Deadhead experience.