TV Highlights

Spring brings not just nice weather but new shows, returning favorites, and more! From a magisterial new Henry Louis Gates, Jr. survey to a three-night live Nature event to a stunning epic historical drama, there's a lot to catch in April!

March brings three separate birthday celebrations of some talented musicians, including one who grew up in Chicago. Plus we have a new Geoffrey Baer special where he leaves the city for some R&R, and two documentaries on Chicago politics and history.

During this polar weather, watch a Nature special on an ancient people who thrived in wintry conditions, an Oscar-nominated documentary with a local connection, and profile two incredible African American performers for Black History Month – plus, the beloved Mister Rogers.

The beginning of a new year always brings the excitement of eagerly anticipated shows, and 2019 is no exception. From Oscar-buzzy documentaries to sweeping histories from Ken Burns and Henry Louis Gates, Jr. to new dramas and adaptations, it's going to be a good year. 

The first month of 2018 has compassionate looks at some of Chicago's most fascinating people, a new comedic mystery, another season of genealogical sleuthing with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and a two-part Nature series. Oh yeah – and a little show called Victoria.

Celebrate two major anniversaries: Apollo 8, the first spacecraft to orbit the moon, and the centennial of a major American musical figure. Plus, enjoy a holiday special from a favorite show and a documentary about the Jewish songwriters responsible for much of our Christmas music.

This month, there's a Nature documentary chronicling the journey of a polar bear family, a hilarious special honoring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, a look at the artistic and intellectual scenes in three remarkable cities, and a look at the making of a Broadway show.

As the election approaches, watch documentaries highlighting pressing issues vital to democracy in America. Dive into the unique legacies of art and design in Chicago. Experience the splendor of autumn. Discover the incredible achievements and history of Native Americans, and more.

This September is packed with exciting shows, from a local documentary examining deindustrialization to the returns of several favorites, plus the surprising nature hiding in plain sight in cities and a documentary spotlighting healthcare that's executive produced by Ken Burns.

An extraordinary tour of Mexico's fantastical landscapes, an outside look at one of Chicago's jewels, a necessary two-part Frontline documentary that serves as a corrective to headlines, a tribute to a beloved television pioneer, and a look at Northern Ireland's Troubles.

Geoffrey Baer introduces you to thirty more locations that changed America and how we traverse it and remember our past; Marcus Samuelsson explores the cuisine of immigrant communities; a surprising actor takes on the role of a classic French detective; and a baseball legend is profiled.

This month, two British favorites return for new seasons – the final season for one – the life and work of a trailblazing black Chicagoan is celebrated, 50 years of LGBTQ history is explored, and a legendary star is saluted by fellow musicians.

This month, travel through Southeast Asia with a familiar host, celebrate reading with an adaptation of a classic novel and a book-centric special, learn about a shameful chapter of American history, honor Memorial Day, and meet a Chicagoan who has changed his many students' lives.

This month, enjoy a mouth-watering new cooking show from WTTW featuring some of Chicago's top chefs; an expansive survey of humanity's astounding artistic achievements; profiles of titans of politics and science; and discover what makes cities tick.

This month, there's a tribute to one of the most beloved figures in children's television of all time, a unique concert by The Rolling Stones, a profile of an influential but underappreciated activist, and a slew of British shows, both long-time favorites and new series.