Masterpiece

This epic U.S. television series from PBS has been on the air since 1971 and can boast of more than 1,200 episodes. Originally known as Masterpiece Theatre, it all began with a twelve-part series titled "The First Churchills" (based on books by Sir Winston Churchill) and it's mission since then has been to bring quality British productions to screens in the U.S.

In 2008, PBS dropped the word Theatre from the show, and it became known simply as Masterpiece. A format change also occurred and the show was split into three different segments spanning the calendar year. PBS' affiliated program Mystery! was also reformatted at this time and incorporated into Masterpiece as the Masterpiece Mystery! segment. In winter and spring, each new season begins with Masterpiece Classic episodes featuring signature period dramas; in summer months, Masterpiece Mystery! presents the best British mysteries; and in the fall, Masterpiece Contemporary airs dramas set in modern times.

Accolades include being the recipient of more than 51 Primetime Emmy and 17 Peabody awards. This show is truly a Masterpiece and many productions are now available on DVD for home enjoyment.