If you’re searching for the finest shows from Hollywood, look no further. In Australia, you can enjoy a wide selection of top-notch programs on PBS, including captivating movies, informative news programs, and exceptional shows.
Although PBS is a geo-restricted service and cannot be accessed in Australia, there are several ways to watch PBS shows. You can either tune in to PBS on television through your cable provider or opt for cable-free streaming options such as Fubo, SlingTV + Lifestyle Extra Bundle, DirecTV steam, Philo, or YouTube TV.
Now, let’s delve into the best PBS shows available in Australia, complete with detailed descriptions, ratings, cast, and director information. This comprehensive list will surely enhance your watchlist and keep you entertained.
The Miniaturist
| Genre | Drama/Fantasy/Mystery |
|---|---|
| Director | Guillem Morales |
| Writer/Creator | John Brownlow |
| Cast | Anya Taylor-Joy, Romola Garai, Hayley Squires |
| IMDb Rating | 7.0/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 1 |
“The Miniaturist” is set in 17th-century Amsterdam, where a young woman hires a mysterious local miniaturist to furnish her dollhouse. As she unravels the lifelike miniatures, they eerily foretell her impending doom.
This enthralling PBS show offers a captivating storyline and is highly recommended for viewers in Australia.
Sanditon
| Genre | Drama/Romance |
|---|---|
| Director | Charles Sturridge |
| Writer/Creator | Andrew Davies |
| Cast | Rose Williams, Crystal Clarke, Kris Marshall |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 3 |
Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished final book, “Sanditon” follows Charlotte as she embarks on a new beginning in the sleepy fishing village of Sanditon.
There, she meets Sidney, a charming man with plans to transform the village into an upscale resort. This delightful PBS show explores themes of love and societal change and is brought to life by the talented cast, including Rose Williams and Theo Jame.
Northanger Abbey
| Genre | Drama/Romance |
|---|---|
| Director | John Jones |
| Writer/Creator | Andrew Davis |
| Cast | Geraldine James, Micheal Judd, Julia Dearden |
| IMDb Rating | 7.2/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 1h 24m |
“Northanger Abbey” draws inspiration from Jane Austen’s novel and offers an interesting and heartwarming tale. The story revolves around a young woman whose love for Gothic literature leads to misunderstandings and challenges in matters of the heart.
With its engaging plot and talented cast, this PBS show is a must-watch for Australian viewers.
Hotel Portofino
| Genre | Drama |
|---|---|
| Director | Adam Wimpenny |
| Writer/Creator | Matt Baker |
| Cast | Natascha McElhone, Oliver Dench, Louise Binder |
| IMDb Rating | 6.7/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 1 |
Filled with drama and conspiracies, “Hotel Portofino” is set in Mussolini’s Italian Riviera in 1926. The story revolves around matriarch Bella Ainsworth, who hopes to establish her hotel as a home away from home for upscale English travelers.
As Bella navigates obnoxious guests, a rebellious husband, and threats from a local Nazi politician, this PBS show offers a gripping narrative for Australian viewers.
Unforgotten
| Genre | Crime Drama Mystery |
|---|---|
| Director | Andy Wilson |
| Writer/Creator | Chris Lang |
| Cast | Sanjeev Bhaskar, Jordan Long, Nicola Walker |
| IMDb Rating | 8.3/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 5 |
“Unforgotten” follows Detective Chief Inspector Cassie Stuart and Detective Sergeant Sunny Khan as they investigate the death of a young man found in an abandoned building. The case leads them back to 1976 when the building was a hostel, and a homeless runaway named Jimmy Sullivan was murdered.
As the detectives uncover secrets and hidden connections, the people closest to them become suspects. This gripping PBS crime drama will keep you guessing and questioning the true nature of those we trust.
Grantchester
| Genre | Crime/Drama/Mystery |
|---|---|
| Director | – |
| Writer/Creator | Daisy Coulam |
| Cast | Robson Green, Tessa Peak-Jones, Al Weaver |
| IMDb Rating | 7.9/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 7 |
“Grantchester” is set in 1953 and follows Sidney, the rector of Grantchester, whose peaceful life is disrupted when he encounters a murder. Sidney’s keen understanding of human nature and the trust he inspires in others make him an excellent detective.
As he delves into the world of crime, Sidney also grapples with his love for Amanda, a woman from a higher social class. This compelling PBS show offers a fascinating blend of crime and personal dilemmas.
Prime Suspect
| Genre | Crime/Drama/Thriller |
|---|---|
| Director | David Caffery |
| Writer/Creator | Glen Laker |
| Cast | Stam Reid, Stefanie Martini, Blake Harrison |
| IMDb Rating | 7.5/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 1 |
“Prime Suspect” (1973) centers around Jane Tennison, a 22-year-old police officer facing blatant sexism in her early days on the force. She is soon thrust into a murder investigation that challenges her abilities and determination.
This PBS crime drama offers a thrilling storyline and showcases the struggles and triumphs of a female detective in a male-dominated profession.
Les Miserables
| Genre | Drama/History/Romance |
|---|---|
| Director | Tom Shankland |
| Writer/Creator | Andrew Davis |
| Cast | Dominic West, David Oyelowo, Adeel Akhtar |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 1 |
Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, “Les Miserables” is a television adaptation that follows Jean Valjean as he evades the relentless Inspector Javert in post-Napoleonic France. Against the backdrop of societal instability in Paris, this PBS drama presents a captivating tale of redemption, love, and revolution.
Endeavour
| Genre | Crime/Drama/Mystery |
|---|---|
| Director | Shaun Evans |
| Writer/Creator | Russell Lewis |
| Cast | Shaun Evans, Roger Allam, James Bradshaw |
| IMDb Rating | 8.6/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 9 |
“Endeavour” takes viewers back to the formative years of Detective Endeavour Morse as he solves various cases in Oxford between 1965 and 1971. Assisted by his senior associate DI Fred Thursday, Morse unravels mysteries while navigating personal and professional challenges.
This PBS crime drama offers a compelling portrayal of a young detective and his journey to becoming an iconic figure in the police force.
Call the Midwife
| Genre | Drama/History |
|---|---|
| Director | Syd Macartney |
| Writer/Creator | Heidi Thomas |
| Cast | Vanessa Redgrave, Laura Main, Jenny Agutter |
| IMDb Rating | 8.6/10 |
| Run time/No. of seasons | 11 |
“Call the Midwife” follows the experiences of Jenny and other nurses working alongside medically trained nuns in the slums.
As they deliver babies and provide medical care, they witness the harsh living conditions but also discover the resilience and courage of the mothers. This heartfelt PBS drama captures the challenges and triumphs of midwifery in a historical context.
Wrapping Up
These are just a few of the best PBS shows available to watch in Australia. With their captivating storylines, talented cast, and skilled directors, these shows provide a rich and diverse viewing experience.
Whether you enjoy crime dramas, historical adaptations, or heartfelt stories, PBS offers something for every viewer. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of quality television brought to you by PBS.
