Bryan Johnson: The Tech Entrepreneur’s Quest for Immortality

Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur renowned for founding Braintree—a payment processing company that acquired Venmo—has embarked on an ambitious journey to reverse aging and extend human life. His endeavors are the focus of Netflix’s documentary, Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever, which premiered on January 1, 2025.

Early Life and Career

Born on August 22, 1977, in Provo, Utah, Bryan Johnson was raised in Springville, Utah. He graduated with a BA in International Studies from Brigham Young University in 2003 and later earned an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2007. In 2007, he founded Braintree, a company specializing in mobile and web payment systems for e-commerce businesses. Under his leadership, Braintree acquired Venmo in 2012 for $26.2 million; the combined entity was later acquired by PayPal for $800 million in 2013.

Project Blueprint: A Pursuit of Eternal Youth

Following his success in the tech industry, Johnson shifted his focus to biotechnology and human longevity. He launched Project Blueprint, investing approximately $2 million annually in an extensive anti-aging regimen. This protocol includes a strict vegan diet, consuming over 50 supplements daily, regular medical procedures such as plasma transfusions, and a rigorous exercise routine. Johnson’s goal is to reduce his biological age, aiming to achieve the health metrics of an 18-year-old.

Controversial Methods and Public Scrutiny

Johnson’s methods have sparked both intrigue and criticism. His practices, including tri-generational blood plasma exchanges involving his father and son, have been labeled as extreme and experimental. Despite the controversies, Johnson remains steadfast in his pursuit, viewing his efforts as a revolutionary approach to human health and longevity.

Media Spotlight: Netflix’s ‘Don’t Die’ Documentary

Johnson’s life and anti-aging endeavors are chronicled in the Netflix documentary Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever. The film provides an intimate look into his daily routines, medical procedures, and the personal motivations driving his quest for immortality. Directed by Chris Smith, known for Fyre and 100 Foot Wave, the documentary delves into the broader implications of humanity’s desire to defy aging.

Personal Life

Raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Johnson left the church at the age of 34. He has three children and has been open about his personal life, including his departure from the church and his experiences as a father.

Conclusion

Bryan Johnson’s journey reflects a blend of technological innovation and a deep-seated desire to push the boundaries of human longevity. His story raises profound questions about the lengths to which one might go in the pursuit of eternal youth and the ethical considerations intertwined with such endeavors.

FAQs

1. Who is Bryan Johnson? Bryan Johnson is an American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and founder of Braintree, a payment processing company that acquired Venmo. He is currently known for his anti-aging endeavors documented in Netflix’s Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever.
2. What is Project Blueprint? Project Blueprint is Bryan Johnson’s anti-aging protocol, involving a strict diet, extensive supplementation, regular medical procedures, and a rigorous exercise regimen aimed at reversing his biological age.
3. What are the methods used in Project Blueprint? The methods include a vegan diet, consuming over 50 supplements daily, plasma transfusions, and other medical treatments designed to slow or reverse aging.
4. Why is Bryan Johnson’s approach controversial? His approach is considered controversial due to the experimental nature of the treatments, the significant financial investment required, and ethical concerns regarding procedures like plasma transfusions involving family members.
5. Where can I watch the documentary about Bryan Johnson? The documentary Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever is available for streaming on Netflix.
6. What is Bryan Johnson’s background? Born in Provo, Utah, Bryan Johnson is a tech entrepreneur with a BA in International Studies and an MBA. He founded Braintree and later ventured into biotechnology and human longevity projects.

From Pathostheatre