What to Watch in November

There’s a huge amount of worthwhile TV out there nowadays, so it can be hard to choose what to watch. But who better to recommend shows than the person who programs them? Lisa Tipton, WTTW’s Head of Programming and Pledge, constructs the WTTW schedule by searching through offerings from many different sources which include the national PBS network, the BBC, and independent filmmakers to put together a varied and engaging broadcast schedule. Each month, she’ll recommend a few shows that she thinks you should watch.

You can also now watch all of WTTW's programming via live stream 24/7 at wttw.com/live.

Roadkill

Sundays at 8:00 pm beginning November 1 and available to stream

In this new drama, Hugh Laurie stars as an ambitious politician wading through scandals and enemies in his determination to hold power. In case you can't get enough of politics even after the election, or simply want to escape from the real world of political theater into fictional drama, this is an exciting program. 

Secrets of the Royal Jewels 

Thursday, November 5 at 8:00 pm

It's always fun to get a close-up look into the lives of the British royals (that's part of why we love period dramas!), and Secrets of the Royal Jewels is no exception. Even better, it's followed by more insider looks: Secrets of the Royal Kitchens and Secrets of the Royal Servants. And if you still want more, Secrets of Royal Travel airs Sundays at 9:00 pm., beginning November 15.

Chicago at the Crossroad

Thursday, November 12 at 8:00 pm and Sunday, November 15 at 5:00 pm

Even though gun violence is declining in most major U.S. cities, it continues to be an intractable problem in many of Chicago's communities. Chicago at the Crossroad examines some of the reasons why and also looks at potential solutions. 

For more perspectives on gun violence in Chicago, the WTTW Digital Series FIRSTHAND: Gun Violence offers expert solutions, the intimate stories of five people affected directly by gun violence, and in-depth reporting on the issue.

Chicago from the Air

Thursday, November 19 at 7:30 pm and available to stream at wttw.com/air

Photo: iStock.com/marchello74

Geoffrey Baer has explored Chicago in many ways, but never like this: in Chicago from the Air, he shows what can be revealed about the city and its surroundings from the air, via breathtaking drone footage. It's an altogether new perspective on the city we all know and love! 

Don't miss the companion website for a glimpse behind the scenes of shooting with a drone and more.

Dolly Parton: I Will Always Love You

Saturday, November 28 at 7:00 pm

Photo: TJL Productions

Dolly Parton transcends: although her music mostly falls under the genre country, she has adoring fans from outside that genre; she has found success not just as a musician but as an actress; her name is known and beloved by people from all parts of the country and walks of life; she even has a theme park to her name. Celebrate the inimitable performer in this new special.

Further immerse yourself in country music with Ken Burns' Country Music, which is available to stream by WTTW Passport members. There's plenty of Parton!

Masterpiece: 50 Fabulous Years

Sunday, November 29 at 7:00 pm

This year marks the 50th anniversary of PBS, as well as its flagship drama series, Masterpiece, which is still going strong today (as you know!). Look back on generations of iconic British drama, from Upstairs Downstairs to Downton Abbey, I, Claudius to Poldark. 

If this special leaves you wanting to catch up on some of your favorite British shows, check out our recaps of them. Many are also available to stream by WTTW Passport members.