Ongoing Documentary Series

Explore and follow these ten outstanding documentary series—each releasing new episodes throughout the year. Many documentaries in our catalog come from these series, making them excellent starting points for expanding your documentary horizons.

Frontline PBS logo

Frontline

Started: 1983

The gold standard for investigative journalism and in-depth examinations of social and political issues. Since its debut, Frontline has produced over 800 documentaries and won numerous Emmy and Peabody Awards. New episodes air seasonally throughout the year.

American Experience PBS logo

American Experience

Started: 1988

A premier history series using archival footage and expert analysis to explore compelling stories from America's past. The series has won 30 Emmy Awards and continues to air episodes that inform our understanding of the world today. Recent episodes include in-depth examinations of figures like Henry Kissinger.

NOVA PBS logo

NOVA

Started: 1974

The premier science documentary series covering everything from physics and space to forensic archaeology. NOVA is the most-watched prime time science series on American television, reaching an average of five million viewers weekly. New episodes air regularly throughout the broadcast season.

Nature PBS logo

Nature

Started: 1982

Television's longest-running weekly natural history series, focusing on ecology and animal behavior research. The series has won over 200 honors from the television industry, wildlife film community, and environmental organizations. Nature airs weekly during broadcast seasons with new episodes throughout the year.

Independent Lens PBS logo

Independent Lens

Started: 1999

A long-running anthology series featuring independent documentary films with a focus on social impact. The Emmy Award-winning series presents 14-16 films annually, showcasing unforgettable stories from diverse, independent filmmakers. Multiple films have received Academy Award nominations.

POV PBS logo

POV

Started: 1988

America's longest-running independent documentary showcase, presenting bold and timely films that capture the full spectrum of the human experience. POV has won multiple Emmy Awards and featured groundbreaking works including several on IndieWire's '50 Best Documentaries of the 21st Century.' The series airs 14-16 films annually.

American Masters PBS logo

American Masters

Started: 1986

The definitive biographical series providing comprehensive portraits of influential cultural and political figures. Currently in its 38th season, American Masters examines the lives, works, and creative processes of artists, musicians, writers, and visionaries who have shaped American culture. New episodes air multiple times throughout the year.

The Nature of Things CBC logo

The Nature of Things

Started: 1960

The world's longest-running science documentary series, presenting dramatic stories driven by scientific understanding. Hosted by Sarika Cullis-Suzuki and Anthony Morgan since 2024, the series continues its tradition of exploring nature, technology, health, and environmental issues. New episodes air weekly during broadcast seasons.

Economics Explained YouTube logo

Economics Explained

Started: 2019

A data-driven series that breaks down global trade, national economies, and financial systems with clear, accessible explanations. Regular uploads cover topics from macroeconomics to specific country analyses. Originally featured on CuriosityStream, the series continues actively on YouTube.

Wendover Productions YouTube logo

Wendover Productions

Started: 2010

Educational short format documentaries exploring logistics, transportation, and how the world works. Creator Sam Denby delivers well-researched, visually engaging content on topics from airline operations to global infrastructure. New videos release regularly (weekly/bi-weekly).

Ongoing Documentary Series | Reel Facts