The American Experience strand on PBS has unveiled its 2027 slate, featuring limited-series docs on Charles Lindbergh and the FBI and a continued emphasis on driving its social video presence on the heels of its short-form videos on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube generating more than 19 million video views in the last five months.
“At a time when misinformation floods our feeds, trusted brands like American Experience matter more than ever,” said Raney Aronson-Rath, editor-in-chief overseeing GBH’s documentary programming. “Audiences are looking for stories they can rely on—grounded in the historical record, informed by rigorous scholarship, and brought to life through compelling storytelling. By exploring defining moments, iconic figures, and enduring themes, we’re reaching broader audiences and introducing new generations to history. That’s not just growth—it’s central to our mission.”
The new slate arrives in May 2027 with the premiere of Lindbergh, a three-parter from Ken Burns and Stephen Ives in time for the 100th anniversary of Charles Lindbergh’s first flight. In the fall, the strand will deliver a four-part series, The Bureau: A Secret History of the FBI, directed by Sharon Grimberg and Sarah Colt. A series on the Great Depression is in development.
Beyond the series lineup, American Experience will also feature two landmark films from Stanley Nelson: his Emmy Award-winning Freedom Riders, which premiered in 2011, and Freedom Summer, which originally aired in 2014.
“Having visionary filmmakers including Ken Burns, Stephen Ives, and Stanley Nelson involved with us is a testament to the importance of this moment in history, the way these topics relate to our world today, and the trust of American Experience as a brand,” said GBH CEO Susan Goldberg. “With Raney’s leadership, audiences can expect the highest quality documentaries available.”
American Experience, NOVA and Frontline all fall under Aronson-Rath’s editorial leadership.
