Duration
15 minutes
Series Info
Season 1 Episode 8

Quick Summary

Eleanor Roosevelt: a vivid documentary series that brings the American icon’s fierce activism and personal triumphs to life, offering UK television viewers a fresh at‑glance look at her role in shaping global politics. This British TV programme blends drama and entertainment, delivering compelling episode highlights that fit neatly into any RTE2 programming slot and the everyday television guide for UK viewers. Perfect for a quick overview, the series invites you to explore a pivotal figure through engaging series episodes that resonate with a modern audience.

About This Program

Eleanor Roosevelt is a richly produced documentary series that forms part of a broader look at the lives of people who have defined the United States and its place in the world. The series follows a clear narrative arc, tracing Roosevelt’s evolution from a shy daughter of a former president to a pioneering First Lady, United Nations delegate and champion of human rights. For UK television fans who enjoy history‑driven drama and documentary, the programme offers a balanced mix of archival footage, expert analysis and dramatic re‑enactments, all presented with the high production values expected from a flagship series on RTE2. Each episode delivers an in‑depth review of a distinct phase of Eleanor’s public life, from her early activism in the 1930s to her post‑war work at the United Nations. Viewers can anticipate meticulously researched interviews with historians, excerpts from Roosevelt’s own letters and speeches, and vivid visual storytelling that brings the era to life. The series does not shy away from controversy, exploring her complex relationship with the media, her role in shaping the New Deal, and her lasting influence on modern diplomacy. The pacing is deliberately measured, allowing UK viewers to absorb full details without feeling rushed. The programme’s standout features include never‑before‑seen photographs from the Roosevelt archives, a compelling soundtrack that blends period music with contemporary composition, and a series of thematic episodes that each focus on a different aspect of her legacy – civil‑rights advocacy, women’s empowerment and international cooperation. A notable highlight is the episode dedicated to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which showcases Eleanor’s behind‑the‑scenes negotiations in a dramatic yet factual style. The documentary also incorporates interactive online extras, giving British TV audiences the chance to explore supplementary material at their own pace. British TV viewers have long appreciated programmes that combine rigorous scholarship with engaging storytelling, and Eleanor Roosevelt fits that mould perfectly. The series resonates with UK audiences through its exploration of transatlantic relations, democratic ideals and the evolution of social policy – themes that remain relevant in contemporary British discourse. Moreover, the focus on a strong female figure aligns with the UK’s growing appetite for women‑centred narratives in both drama and documentary formats, making it a timely addition to any television guide. RTE2’s commitment to high‑quality documentary entertainment is evident in the placement of Eleanor Roosevelt within its current slate of history‑focused series. The programme complements other flagship offerings that examine influential leaders and pivotal moments, reinforcing the channel’s reputation for delivering comprehensive guides to world affairs. For UK viewers seeking a well‑rounded series that balances education with compelling drama, this documentary stands out as a must‑watch entry in the RTE2 programming schedule.

American Icons broadcasts on RTE2 at 0:45pm, Sunday, 21 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)