PBS and Independent Lens producer ITVS are collaborating on a new YouTube channel focused on delivering a diverse collection of documentaries.
The PBS Documentaries YouTube channel is intended to boost the reach of nonfiction content from PBS stations and its production partners, as well as independent filmmakers across the U.S. It aims to showcase more than 100 new videos yearly, across short docs from brands and filmmakers like Independent Lens, POV, BBC Studios, Reel South, and VOCES; science and history specials created for the PBS schedule; and digital-first content from PBS Digital Studios. The move follows PBS, ITVS, and its stations landing more than two billion views on YouTube in 2025 alone.
The channel launches with the premiere of the Independent Lens doc The Inquisitor, directed by Angela Lynn Tucker, profiling Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan, followed by Keep Quiet and Forgive, directed by Sarah McClure, about an Amish child sexual assault survivor. Other premieres include Our New World from Boréales and Terra Mater Studio, and Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure from BBC Studios Natural History Unit.
“PBS and our member stations are America’s home for documentary storytelling,” said Paula Kerger, president and CEO of PBS. “This channel gives us the opportunity to meet new audiences where they already are and bring them into a deeper relationship with the extraordinary work our stations and partners produce. ITVS and Independent Lens have long shared our commitment to highlighting a range of independent voices. Together, we are building something that strengthens the entire public media system and creates more opportunities for the American people to access our documentary programs.”
“PBS remains one of the most trusted institutions in America, and documentaries are a cornerstone of its commitment to civic engagement,” said Carrie Lozano, president and CEO of ITVS. “Through this partnership, we’re thrilled to expand our shared public-service mission into digital spaces to reach new audiences.”
