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.

The Kingdom: The World's Most Powerful Prince

The Kingdom: The World's Most Powerful Prince

Prince Mohammed is heir to the throne of Saudi Arabia, the most influential country in the Middle East. As ‘Prime Minister’, the young prince has already instigated the fastest changes to Saudi society since the country’s formation in 1932. Karaoke bars, mixed crowds in restaurants, and raves in the desert have suddenly sprung up. Yet his rise to power has involved abductions, torture and murder.

Highclere: Behind the Scenes

Highclere: Behind the Scenes

It’s the fictional Crawley Family who inhabit the massive TV hit Downton Abbey, known and loved around the world. But what about their real-life counterparts? With exclusive access to Highclere Castle, this documentary follows the highs and lows of the colorful, modern-day Lord and Lady Carnarvon and their loyal staff, as they strive to keep this demanding castle running smoothly.

The Aristocrats

The Aristocrats

Throughout history, a small group of aristocratic families have wielded extraordinary power across Britain and the rest of Europe. While times have changed, the descendants of these families still inhabit a rarefied world. This fascinating series shares the real-life stories of the ruling elite and charts the highs and lows of being a member of the aristocracy in the 21st century.

Phil Spencer's Stately Homes

Phil Spencer's Stately Homes

Britain’s stately homes were private sanctuaries that housed the nation’s aristocrats for centuries. Now, architecture expert Phil Spencer has been given exclusive access to some of the most extravagant country houses. He will be peeling back the years to explore how and why these extraordinary houses came to be built and reveal the history behind the construction and evolution of these mansions.

Disappeared: Mexico's Missing 43

Disappeared: Mexico's Missing 43

Mexico, 2014. 43 students were violently attacked, then vanished. Someone, somewhere knows the truth. This intriguing true crime documentary searches for answers amid corruption, cartels, and conspiracies. Families of the missing, crime officials, politicians and insiders all give their views on what happened and who was responsible. Can the real culprits ever be caught?