Channel 4 Orders New Tony Robinson-Led Docuseries

Channel 4 in the U.K. has commissioned Woodcut Media to produce Tony Robinson’s Forgotten War Stories.

Presented by actor Sir Tony Robinson, the six-part history series explores some key forgotten conflicts, from the Suez Crisis to the Bosnian War, Gulf War, Korean War, Malayan Emergency and the Mau Mau Uprising in Kenya.

Each episode of Tony Robinson’s Forgotten War Stories is guided by historians, experts and eyewitnesses from around the world, who relay their experiences during the wars. It is slated to premiere on Channel 4 later this year. Worldwide sales of the series will be handled by Woodcut International.

Robinson commented: “Our understanding of Britain’s place in the world has been totally distorted by the amnesia we’ve undergone with regard to the wars our country has fought in recent times. Ask anyone under 35 what they know about Malaya, Kenya or Korea and you’re almost certain to receive a blank face. These are hidden, sometimes censored stories which I’ve wanted to tell for decades, and I’m delighted Channel 4 has given me the opportunity to do so.”

Polly Scates, acquisitions manager for Channel 4, said: “We were immediately drawn to the ‘forgotten’ element of the series and the opportunity to shine a light on a lesser known part of British history. We’re absolutely thrilled to be working with Tony Robinson and Woodcut to bring these important but often unheard stories to life.”

Kate Beal, CEO of Woodcut Media, said: “It’s a delight to be working with Tony Robinson again. His passion and knowledge for history, as well as on-screen presence, bring each episode to life. Forgotten War Stories also drives to the heart of those real-life experiences and seldom told accounts from individuals caught up in these conflicts who share their recollections, as such we hope this series will give a voice to many otherwise unheard.”