The Reagans

2020 - 2020

Part 1 - The Hollywood Myth Machine

15th November 2020

Episode 1

The rise of Ronald Reagan from liberal movie star to an unlikely conservative politician who shocked the nation by capturing the governorship of the largest state. Closely examining American myths and the myth-making so expertly exploited by the Reagans to seize power, episode one also looks at the ruthless rise of the corporate political right, which led Reagan to become an evangelist for small government.

Part 2 - The Right Turn

22nd November 2020

Episode 2

A closer look at Reagan’s record on race — and a re-examination of his history as a law-and-order candidate who effectively used racialist codes as a strategy to win elections. The resonances with today’s political landscape and the tactics currently deployed by some in the GOP (and the reaction of the left) are categorical. Nancy starts to come into her own as a political force.

Part 3 - The Great Undoing

29th November 2020

Episode 3

The triumph of both Reagans is explored as Ronald sets about undoing the New Deal and Great Society, setting off a political chain reaction that reverberates to this day. Nancy struggles with her image, as does Ronald. As they seem to care more about the rich and the military industrial complex than the poor, the fallacy of trickle-down economics is revealed.

Part 4 - In the Stars

6th December 2020

Episode 4

The Reagans’ second term - and near-collapse of the administration in light of the Iran-Contra scandal – comes under examination. Nancy’s behind-the-scenes machinations reveal her true influence and power: expertly balancing the act of a dutiful wife as Ronald’s health declines with her quest to shape the Reagan legacy. The Reagans’ tragic inaction in the face of the HIV-AIDS pandemic is assessed with Dr. Anthony Fauci weighing in. Series finale.

Top Cast

Ronald Reagan•Nancy Reagan•Ron Reagan

A four-part documentary series that explores the many surprisingly unexamined aspects of the Reagan White House, and how Nancy Reagan's paper-doll image was at odds with the power she ultimately wielded throughout her husband's presidency.

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Production Companies

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Full Cast

Ronald Reagan Image

Ronald Reagan

Self (archive footage)

Nancy Reagan Image

Nancy Reagan

Self (archive footage)

Ron Reagan Image

Ron Reagan

Self - Interviewee

Full Crew

Matt Tyrnauer

Executive Producer

Corey Reeser Image

Corey Reeser

Executive Producer

Stephen J. Morrison

Executive Producer

Vinnie Malhotra Image

Vinnie Malhotra

Executive Producer

Graham High Image

Graham High

Co-Executive Producer

Andrea Lewis

Editor

Lorne Balfe Image

Lorne Balfe

Original Music Composer

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