Somerset Teen Debuts Bigfoot Documentary, Sharing Outdoor Discovery

A new documentary spotlights 15-year-old Daniel Lee Barnett from Stogursey, Somerset, as he pursues the legend of Bigfoot across two countries. The film blends outdoor adventure with a personal story about autism and growth.

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The project follows his journey from the Quantock Hills to Washington State, where he collaborates with a team of researchers to explore the mystery.

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From footprint to film

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The story opens with a large footprint found in nearby woodlands. DNA tests on the print suggest traces linked to ancient primates, fueling the investigation and the team's curiosity.

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A coming‑of‑age on screen

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The documentary, titled My Bigfoot Life, documents Daniel's trip to the Pacific Northwest to work with Bigfoot researchers. It has played in cinemas and has attracted streaming deals in the United Kingdom and the United States.

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Daniel told INLIBER Somerset he enjoyed filming with experienced researchers who acted as mentors, and the experience helped him learn new skills.

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The Bigfoot mystery

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The film explores Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, a name that means 'wild man'. The legend gained momentum after large tracks were found in Northern California in 1958. While there is no definitive physical proof, cryptozoologists view it as a cultural icon and a popular subject for books and TV programs.

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Daniel notes that Washington State is often described as a Bigfoot hotspot, with many sightings reported in Olympic National Park.

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In a conversation with INLIBER Somerset, Daniel recalled speaking at a Florida autism conference before an audience of around 5,000 people. He described how time outdoors helps him stay calm and focused, especially when traditional classroom settings feel restrictive.

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What began as a family pastime of spotting deer and other wildlife grew into a broader mission: to share the importance of time outside and the sense of calm it brings.

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“Just phenomenal”

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The film also features Daniel's grandparents, who talk about how outdoor exploration helped him open up. “When Daniel asked if they could search the forest for creatures, the change was immediate,” said his grandmother. “He became more talkative and excited, and that energy carried through,” her husband added.

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Daniel recalls the moment when after two years of filming, he watched the finished movie in a cinema with his father and the crew—the experience, he says, felt surreal and rewarding.

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The story invites viewers to consider how outdoor pursuits can support young people facing social or learning challenges and to reflect on the wonder of the natural world.

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Readers can follow INLIBER Somerset on Facebook and X. For story ideas, contact us by email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

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Expert perspective

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Expert comment: The film taps into a long‑standing fascination with hidden animals while highlighting how outdoor activities can support mental well‑being for teens on the autism spectrum. It also shows how mentorship and family backing can boost confidence.

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Summary

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My Bigfoot Life blends adventure, science, and personal growth, turning a countryside curiosity into a global story. It demonstrates how mentorship, family support, and time outdoors can unlock confidence in a young person navigating autism. The film's cinema release and streaming availability help spread its hopeful message beyond Somerset.

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Key takeaway: Outdoor exploration can empower teens with autism, turning personal curiosity into compelling storytelling that resonates across borders.

BBC News