BBC Two, PBS Co-Commission Disco Doc Series

BBC Two and PBS have commissioned a landmark series from BBC Studios that examines the rise and fall of disco and celebrates its continuing musical and cultural legacy.

Disco Inferno: The Sound of the Underground (w.t.) promises the definitive story of the people who forged a new form of music and dance and pioneered a social movement, as told by the original musicians, promoters and innovators as well as modern-day musical icons.

The three-part series is produced and directed by Grace Chapman, Louise Lockwood and Shianne Brown, series produced by Catherine Abbott, and the executive producer is Alexander Leith for BBC Studios Productions Documentary Unit. It was commissioned by Jonathan Rothery for the BBC, and Bill Gardner is the executive in charge for PBS. BBC Studios is handling global distribution.

Rothery, commissioning editor for the BBC, said: “There’s no doubt that disco had an enormous impact—not just on the musical landscape at the time of its emergence and far beyond, but as a social and cultural force for change. This documentary series from BBC Studios, which the BBC has supported together with PBS, will highlight many new or untold stories of the genre. I’m looking forward to sharing Disco Inferno with audiences on BBC Two.”

Bill Gardner, VP of multiplatform programming and head of development for PBS, said: “Music is a powerful unifier, bringing together people from all backgrounds and identities, and PBS is committed to sharing stories like Disco Inferno with audiences across platforms. The story and power of disco aren’t just about the music and how it moved people but in its social and cultural impact. PBS is proud to partner with the BBC to tell the unique story of disco—told by those who were there—with themes of pride and celebration that still move people today.”

Abigail Priddle, creative director of BBC Studios Productions Documentary Unit, said: “Disco was such an influential genre in the history of music, with a legacy that remains potent to this very day. We’re thrilled to be working with the BBC and PBS on this fascinating series, exploring the times, places and people that shaped one of the world’s greatest soundtracks.”