Trending documentaries

Need inspiration for which documentary to watch? See what's on BBC Select, from trending shows about the latest news stories to classic BBC documentaries about history, British royalty, nature and more. All available to stream in the US and Canada.

Decades That Defined Us

Once the devastation of two world wars was over, the decades that followed were a period of growth, innovation and turbulence. This social history documentary paints a picture of life during the defining decades of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Using news clips and home movie footage from the time, as well as interviews with world leaders and the general public, see the story of these significant eras.

Royal Wives at War

Royal Wives at War

A family torn apart, a country thrown into crisis and the world plunged into war. 80 years after the abdication crisis of Edward and Mrs. Simpson, this drama-documentary tells the story of a family affair that changed the course of world events. Using the original words of the two women at the center of the battle, the future Queen Mother and divorcee Wallis Simpson, the full scandal is revealed.

October 7th: One Year On

October 7th: One Year On

When Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th 2023, it led to a war now threatening to engulf the entire region. For the past year, BBC reporter Jane Corbin has followed four families, two in Israel and two in Gaza. Tens of thousands of Gazans are reported to have been killed. Many Israeli hostages have died in captivity; more are still being held by Hamas. A peace deal looks as far away as ever.

Al-Fayed–Predator at Harrods

Al-Fayed–Predator at Harrod

A BBC investigation into allegations of rape and attempted rape by Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods. Did the luxury store enable a billionaire predator?

William and Harry: The Unseen Photos

William and Harry: The Unseen Photos

Princes Harry and William were once supportive siblings who had endured tragedy and intense media pressure. But then a rift occurred between them that threatened to destroy the entire royal family. Drawing on hundreds of unseen photos, eyewitness interviews and expert analysis, this fascinating documentary reveals how the seeds for this estrangement were sown more than 40 years ago.