Frontline (1983)
PBS's landmark investigative documentary series, holding power to account through fearless journalism since January 1983.
Frontline - Series Information
- Original Title: Frontline
- First Air Year: 1983
- Created by: David Fanning
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Documentary, News
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (55 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 45
- Number of Episodes: 848
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: January 17, 1983 (United States - TV-MA), January 17, 1983 (Canada - PG), January 17, 1983 (Australia - PG), January 17, 1983 (Mexico - D)
- Networks: PBS
- Alternative Titles: Frontline (PBS) (US)
- Production Companies: GBH, FRONTLINE
- Production Countries: United States of America
Frontline - Plot
Since it began in 1983, Frontline has been airing public-affairs documentaries that explore a wide scope of the complex human experience. Frontline's goal is to extend the impact of the documentary beyond its initial broadcast by serving as a catalyst for change.
Frontline - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a sense of what Frontline brings to the screen:
Where to Watch Frontline
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Frontline - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- David Fanning
Main Cast
- Will Lyman
- Judy Woodruff
- Jessica Savitch
- Donald Trump
- David E. Hoffman
- Barack Obama
- Roger Stone
- Jared Kushner
- Newt Gingrich
- Kamala Harris
Writers
- Neil Docherty
- Ric Esther Bienstock
- Michael Kirk
- Mike Wiser
- Rick Young
Executive Producers
- Michael Sullivan
Frontline - FAQs
Where can you stream Frontline online?
Frontline is available to watch for free on PBS. Full episodes and entire seasons can be streamed at no cost on the PBS website and the PBS app. The series is also accessible via JustWatch, where you can compare all available viewing options in your region.
Is Frontline still producing new episodes in 2025?
Yes, Frontline is currently a returning series and remains in active production. Season 45 is underway as of 2025, continuing the program's decades-long tradition of delivering in-depth investigative documentaries on pressing political, social, and global issues for PBS audiences.
What is Frontline about?
Frontline is PBS's flagship investigative documentary series, examining complex political, social, and global issues through in-depth journalism. Since 1983, it has tackled topics ranging from presidential power and corporate malfeasance to war, public health crises, and social justice, aiming to spark meaningful public dialogue and change.
Who created the Frontline documentary series?
Frontline was created by David Fanning, who launched the series on PBS in January 1983. Fanning served as its long-running executive producer and is widely credited with establishing the program's rigorous editorial standards and its reputation as one of America's most trusted investigative journalism outlets.
How many seasons and episodes does Frontline have?
Frontline has aired 45 seasons comprising 848 episodes since its premiere in January 1983. Each season typically features between 10 and 31 episodes, with individual documentaries running approximately 55 minutes. The series also includes a substantial collection of special episodes catalogued as Season 0.
Who are the main on-screen voices of Frontline?
Will Lyman is the iconic narrator whose voice has defined Frontline for decades. Judy Woodruff and the late Jessica Savitch have served as hosts. The series has also featured correspondents such as David E. Hoffman alongside archive footage of major public figures including Barack Obama and Kamala Harris.
Has Frontline won major journalism or broadcasting awards?
Frontline is one of the most decorated programs in American broadcasting history, having earned numerous Emmy Awards, Peabody Awards, and duPont-Columbia Awards over its four-decade run. Its investigative films on topics such as the opioid crisis, the war in Iraq, and political power have received widespread critical and industry recognition.
What is the content rating for Frontline on PBS?
Frontline carries a TV-PG content rating in the United States. However, individual episodes dealing with graphic subject matter — such as war, violence, or sensitive social issues — may carry stronger advisories. Viewers are encouraged to check episode-specific ratings before watching with younger audiences.
More About Frontline
Explore further details about Frontline on these authoritative external resources.