Watch Reel South

Reel South is a fascinating documentary series on PBS that takes audiences on a journey through the American South to explore the region's complex social and cultural landscape. Produced by a diverse team of filmmakers, each episode delves into a unique topic, from music and literature to history and politics.

One of the standout episodes of Reel South is "The Sanctity of Sanctuary," which tells the story of two women who have dedicated their lives to rescuing and caring for animals. Sharon Preston-Folta and Mary Thorn are two of the most passionate animal welfare advocates in the country, and their work has earned them a legion of fans and followers.

The episode begins with the story of Mary Thorn, an eccentric woman who shares her home with more than a dozen rescue animals, including a giant alligator named Rambo. Mary has always loved animals, and her desire to care for them stems from a deep sense of compassion and respect for all living creatures. Despite facing numerous legal and financial challenges over the years, Mary remains committed to her mission of providing sanctuary for animals in need.

Next, we meet Sharon Preston-Folta, a former Wall Street executive who gave up her high-powered career to follow her passion for animal welfare. Sharon founded the Suwannee Valley Humane Society in Florida, which has become a beacon of hope for animals in the region. Sharon's approach to animal rescue focuses on education and community outreach, encouraging people to become informed and engaged in animal welfare issues.

As we follow Sharon and Mary on their respective journeys, we get a firsthand look at the challenges they face as animal advocates in the South. From navigating legal obstacles and dealing with skeptical law enforcement officers to finding the resources to care for animals in need, there are many barriers that stand in the way of their work.

Despite these challenges, however, Sharon and Mary remain undaunted in their commitment to the animals they care for. Watching them in action is both inspiring and heartwarming, as we see the fruits of their labor in the happy and healthy animals that thrive under their care.

What sets "The Sanctity of Sanctuary" apart is its powerful message about the importance of compassion, empathy, and respect for all living beings. Whether it's a giant alligator or a scrappy kitten, every animal deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, and Sharon and Mary are shining examples of this ethos in action.

Overall, Reel South is a must-watch series for anyone interested in the history, culture, and social issues of the American South. "The Sanctity of Sanctuary" is just one example of the powerful stories that this series has to offer, and it's truly a testament to the resilience and humanity of those who work tirelessly to care for animals in need.

Reel South is a series that is currently running and has 8 seasons (13 episodes). The series first aired on April 11, 2022.