Royalty documentaries

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Explore the history of the British monarchy with our collection of Royal Family documentaries from the BBC and beyond. From Henry VIII and Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, as well as other monarchies from around the world, stream BBC series and films about the past and present of royalty.

The Palace & The Press

The Palace & The Press

It’s a battle waged constantly in the pages of British newspapers: The Royals vs The Press.

BBC Select has the inside scoop on the tabloids’ obsession in this fascinating Royal Family documentary.

The younger royals might consider journalists a nuisance but there’s no denying the role of the press when it comes to holding them to account. But can these personal intrusions be justified?

The Queen Mother

Watch The Queen Mother on BBC Select

Wife, monarch and much-loved public figure: Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, was one of the most respected members of the British Royal family. But did her friendly image disguise something darker?

This moving royal family documentary reveals the dramatic inside story of her life. The moments of pain and upheaval that defined her legacy.

How did this woman, who didn’t aspire to be Queen, fulfill her destiny?

The Princes and the Press

In this compelling BBC royal family documentary, Amol Rajan investigates how the relationship between the British Royal Family and newspapers has changed dramatically in recent years. Unlike older members of the family such as The Queen, the younger royals like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Harry and Meghan face far greater scrutiny but does the press ever go too far?

The Six Queens of Henry VIII

Stream The Six Queens of Henry VIII on BBC Select

King Henry VIII’s reign was defined by his marriages. Coercion, manipulation and ultimately murder were all employed. Wives were selected and discarded for political and religious reasons and in a desperate attempt to sire an heir.

Join historians Dan Jones and Suzannah Lipscomb as they explore what these turbulent relationships tell us about England’s legendary king.

A Tribute to HRH the Duke of Edinburgh

Watch the remarkable life story of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh – Prince Philip – the man who stood beside Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for over 70 years.