Our TV & Movie Picks for UK Black History Month 2026
From thought-provoking documentaries and powerful dramas to cutting-edge comedies and must-see films, there's no shortage of incredible Black stories to discover this UK Black History Month. Whether you're looking to learn more about Black British history, celebrate Black creativity or simply find your next binge-watch, here are some of our top picks.
Getting It Back: The Story of Cymande (streaming on BBC iPlayer)
Before they became a favourite sample source for generations of hip-hop artists, Cymande were a pioneering British funk band carving out their own unique sound. This fascinating documentary tells the story of their rise, disappearance and remarkable rediscovery.
Malorie Blackman: What If? (streaming on BBC iPlayer)
Award-winning author Malorie Blackman explores alternative histories and asks how different Britain might look if the power structures of the past had been reversed. Thought-provoking and timely.
Bel (streaming on BBC iPlayer)
An intimate and compelling drama exploring identity, family and belonging. Richly acted and emotionally engaging, Bel is one of those stories that stays with you long after the credits have rolled.
A Picture of Birmingham, by Benjamin Zephaniah (streaming on BBC iPlayer)
A love letter to Birmingham from the late Benjamin Zephaniah. Through poetry, storytelling and personal reflection, the much-missed writer and activist captures the spirit of the city that shaped him.
Damilola: The Untold Story (streaming on BBC iPlayer)
This moving documentary revisits the tragic murder of Damilola Taylor and examines its lasting impact on his family and wider British society. Powerful, heartbreaking and essential viewing.
Demascus (streaming on Tubi)
What if you could explore different versions of yourself across multiple realities? Demascus is an inventive sci-fi comedy-drama about a Black man who uses experimental virtual reality therapy to explore alternate versions of his life. Blending humour, science fiction and social commentary, the series tackles themes of identity, grief and mental health. Originally produced by AMC Networks and shelved in 2023, it spent two years in limbo before premiering as a Tubi Original in August 2025.
Pierre (streaming on Channel 4 On Demand)
David Harewood stars as Pierre Jeffreys, a west London duty solicitor who investigates institutional corruption following the death of a young Black man. A force of nature in and out of the courtroom, Pierre dedicates his hard-earned expertise to protecting clients from a justice system that too often fails those who need help most.
Maxxx (streaming on Channel 4 On Demand)
Created by and starring O-T Fagbenle, Maxxx follows a washed-up former boyband star's desperate attempt to revive his career. Sharp, self-aware and packed with laughs, it's a comedy that doesn't take itself too seriously.
Black Voices Collection (streaming on ITVX)
ITVX's year-round Black Voices collection celebrates Black stories, culture, history and talent across film, entertainment and documentary programming. One of our favourites is Sorry, I Didn't Know, the comedy panel show that combines laughs with fascinating insights into Black history and culture.
A Different World (streaming on Netflix)
The beloved 1980s sitcom returns for a new generation. Set at the fictional historically Black Hillman College, the series follows a fresh group of students navigating friendship, romance and campus life, while the return of fan favourites Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert adds a welcome dose of nostalgia.
The Polygamist (streaming on Netflix)
This gripping Zulu-language drama follows wealthy Johannesburg businessman Jonasi Gomora and the fallout from his complicated love life. Packed with scandal, family drama and shocking twists, the series quickly became a talking point on social media following its release.
Untold Stories: Hair on Set (available on Sky & NOW)
For many Black performers, hair is far more than just appearance. This documentary explores representation, professional standards and the lived experiences of Black actors navigating an industry that has often failed to understand textured hair.
Possession (available on Sky & NOW)
Gugu Mbatha-Raw stars as Claudia, a lawyer who travels to Jamaica's haunted Connaught plantation to challenge an inheritance claim, only to uncover dark secrets linking the island's past to the present. Part supernatural thriller, part family drama, this atmospheric mystery is guaranteed to keep you hooked.
Celebrating Black Cinema (available on Sky & NOW)
Oscar nominee Naomie Harris celebrates some of the most influential films, filmmakers and performances in Black cinema, sharing the stories and screen moments that have inspired her throughout her career.
Looking for a fresh alternative to mainstream dating shows such as Love Island UK? This Caribbean reality series serves up romance, drama and vibrant island culture, making it a refreshing change from the usual reality TV format.
Films to Watch
Our three picks from the London Film Festival 2026 combine standout performances, compelling storytelling and some of the year's most anticipated releases. If you missed them at the festival, you'll soon have the chance to catch them on the big screen.
Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother (UK cinemas on 20th November only)
Mahershala Ali stars in this highly anticipated thriller as a hitman forced to go on the run with his children following the death of his wife. Directed by Bassam Tariq and co-starring John Cho and Giancarlo Esposito, the film blends action with a moving exploration of family, grief and identity.
I Love Boosters (in cinemas from 26th October)
Boots Riley returns with another bold, genre-defying satire. Following a crew of professional shoplifters targeting a ruthless fashion mogul, the film combines absurd humour, sharp social commentary and a star-studded cast including Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, LaKeith Stanfield, Don Cheadle and Demi Moore.
Prima Facie (UK cinemas on 20th November only)
Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo delivers a captivating performance in the screen adaptation of Suzie Miller's acclaimed play. Following a brilliant lawyer whose faith in the justice system is shattered when she finds herself confronting it from the other side, Prima Facie is powerful, provocative and essential viewing.
Image Credits: BBC, Sky TV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Apple TV and Netflix.
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