BBC Announces Live Aid at 40 Documentary Series

The BBC has announced a range of programming across BBC Two and Radio 2 this July to mark the 40th anniversary of the historic Live Aid concert, which took place on Saturday, 13th July 1985.

BBC Two and BBC iPlayer will broadcast Live Aid at 40, a documentary delving into the behind-the-scenes narrative of the 1985 event that significantly shaped the concept of charity for a new generation. The programme will feature exclusive interviews with key figures such as Bob Geldof, Bono, and Sting, alongside perspectives from former US President George Bush, Nigeria's President Obasanjo, and Birhan Woldu, whose image as a child during the Ethiopian famine became synonymous with the Wembley concert. The documentary is a co-production between the BBC and CNN Originals.

In addition, BBC Two will air Live Aid The Concert, offering viewers the opportunity to relive over six and a half hours of extended highlights from both the London and Philadelphia concerts. This broadcast will include backstage footage and interviews with prominent artists who performed on the day, including Bono, Brian May, and David Bowie. The BBC highlights that this will be the first time this extensive footage has been televised since its original broadcast in 1985.

Emma Hindley, BBC Commissioning Editor, said: "The series takes the audience on an irresistible and entertaining ride through the 40 years since the biggest live concert ever was shown on TV. Featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews with an array of stars of rock & pop, Live Aid at 40 revels in the music, unravels the politics and explores the legacy of Live Aid."

BBC Radio 2 will also commemorate the anniversary on Sunday, 13th July with Live Aid – The Fans Story, a special programme scheduled for broadcast between 12 am and 1 am, and subsequently available on BBC Sounds. Presented by Paul Gambaccini, the show will feature reflections from organisers Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, as well as insights from performing artists such as Francis Rossi of Status Quo, Dee C. Lee of The Style Council, and Howard Jones. The programme will also include recollections from fans who attended the Wembley event and memories shared by celebrity viewers.

These broadcasts aim to provide audiences with a comprehensive look back at the landmark concert and its lasting impact on music, politics, and global awareness four decades after it took place.