Catch up TV

Episode 12 November 2025

The son of a Welsh miner, Richard Burton became a Hollywood star and is considered one of the greatest British actors ever. He lived a big life in a short time. This is his epic story, from the village of Pontrhydyfen to global icon, and from the teacher in Port Talbot spotting his talents and transforming his life to being offered $7 million for seven movies and a scandalous love affair with Elizabeth Taylor that captivated the world.\n\nThere were bigger, brighter jewels, boats, jets; wealth beyond his wildest dreams. When he played Hamlet on Broadway, the crowds rivalled that of The Beatles. But did he squander his talent for fame, women and alcohol? It’s a question he continued to face despite acclaim and awards for stage and screen, including seven Oscar nominations. Unseen archive footage, revealing interviews with his close family and Burton’s own words from his diaries, read by actor Matthew Rhys, shine a light on the many sides of this proud Welshman.\n\nWith insights from fellow actors and co-stars Dame Siân Phillips and Claire Bloom, as well as leading actors including Gabriel Byrne, Iwan Rheon and Michael Sheen.

Source: BBC 2