RIVERTON — Country singer Luke Bell was celebrated by critics for his raw authenticity. However, behind the scenes, the up-and-comer faced intense personal battles. Tragically, at the height of his fame, Luke passed away. His family opens up about how his legacy has inspired them to advocate for mental health awareness in a new episode of the Wyoming PBS series, “A State of Mind.”

The installment, “Frontier State: The Story of Luke Bell,” premieres at 7:30 p.m., on Friday, Nov. 15, on the main Wyoming PBS channel. 

“When Luke got sick, I felt so alone, and I know he did, too. We did not understand what was happening to us, and we had no idea where to turn for help,” says Luke’s mother, Carol Bell. “I said ‘yes’ to WY PBS in the hopes that I can be a part of creating open conversation about mental health, so that our society can begin to find ways of healing and supporting those who are suffering. I said ‘yes’ to this conversation because I am so grateful that the conversation has begun.”

Luke’s genuine style made him a rising star in the industry, opening for Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam, and Hank Williams Jr. But he faced profound personal struggles, battling bipolar disorder and other mental health challenges. In the aftermath of his loss, his family has committed themselves to raising awareness about mental health, driven by a deep resolve to honor Luke's legacy by supporting others who face similar challenges.

For example, Stan and Mary Flitner, ranchers near the town of Shell, share in the episode how losing their grandson spurred them to start an annual mental health fitness fair for the community.

“Creating this film about country singer Luke Bell, who battled mental illness and passed away tragically, was challenging,” says film director, Mat Hames at Alpheus Media. “Interviewing the people closest to him, there was a weight of deep loss. But his story finds light in his legacy — beyond music, it's his family, each taking unique steps to confront the mental health crisis. I hope it inspires others to search for purpose after loss.”

In its second season, “A State of Mind” is an award-winning documentary series. Earlier this year, the episode, “The Battle Inside,” won a National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Heartland Chapter Emmy Award. In 2023, the series earned three Heartland Emmys for episodes, “The Lone Wolf–Addiction” and “The Pickup Man.” A third episode, “The Cowboy Code,” was also nominated last year.  

“A State of Mind” is sponsored in part by the Hughes Charitable Foundation, Jack and Carole Nunn, the John P. Ellbogen Foundation, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming. For more information about the series, visit wyomingpbs.org/astateofmind/.

After Friday’s premiere, the episode can be viewed anytime on the Wyoming PBS website, app and YouTube channel.