Ep 1. Grand Prix - The Killer Years

The Killer Years is a documentary series that chronicles the deadliest era in motorsport history. In season one's first episode, titled Grand Prix - The Killer Years, viewers are taken back to the 1960s and early 1970s when safety protocols in Formula One (F1) were virtually non-existent.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the popularity of F1 racing during this time and the dangers associated with it. The early footage of high-speed crashes and burning race cars combined with the ominous soundtrack sets the tone for an episode filled with peril and tragedy.

As the episode continues, viewers are given an inside look at the lack of safety measures that existed during this time. Drivers wore little to no protective gear, and the tracks themselves were often dangerous and poorly maintained. The lack of regulation and oversight was staggering, and it's clear that safety was not a top priority.

Through interviews with racing legends and historians, viewers gain an understanding of the risks associated with F1 racing during this period. Drivers such as Sir Jackie Stewart and John Surtees speak candidly about the fear they felt when going out on the track, knowing that a single mistake could mean certain death.

As the episode progresses, viewers are taken through some of the most memorable and tragic moments of this era. From the fiery crash at the 1961 Italian Grand Prix that claimed the lives of Wolfgang von Trips and 15 spectators to the catastrophic accident at the 1970 Belgian Grand Prix that resulted in the deaths of two drivers and one marshal, The Killer Years weaves together a narrative of tragedy and resilience.

Throughout the episode, viewers are reminded of the human toll of these accidents. The families of the deceased drivers speak about the impact that these tragedies had on their lives and the sport as a whole. It's clear that the loss of life during this era was not simply an unfortunate byproduct of the sport but rather a preventable tragedy.

The episode ends on a hopeful note as viewers see the changes that were made in the wake of these accidents. Regulations and safety protocols were put in place, and the sport began to prioritize the well-being of its drivers. The shift in attitude towards safety has led to a much safer sport today, but it's clear that these changes came at a steep cost.

Overall, Grand Prix - The Killer Years is a gripping and emotional look at a dark period in motorsport history. Through expert interviews and powerful archival footage, viewers are given a front-row seat to some of the most tragic moments in F1 history. Despite the bleak subject matter, the episode is also a hopeful reminder of the progress that can be made when lives are prioritized over profits.