The Philanthropist

Watch The Philanthropist

  • TV-14
  • 2009
  • 1 Season
  • 7.4  (1,547)

The Philanthropist is a drama series that aired on NBC in 2009. It revolves around the life of a billionaire named Teddy Rist, played by James Purefoy. As the name suggests, Teddy is a philanthropist who has pledged to use his wealth for the betterment of society.

The show follows Teddy as he travels to various parts of the world to help people in need. He often finds himself in dangerous situations, and the show explores the dangers and risks that come with humanitarian work. The show also delves into Teddy's personal life, including his struggles with guilt and his relationships with his friends and family.

Teddy is joined on his adventures by his loyal team, which consists of his friend and business partner Philip Maidstone, played by Jesse L. Martin, and his assistant Olivia, played by Neve Campbell. Teddy's ex-wife, played by Krista Allen, and his daughter, played by Lindy Booth, also play a significant role in the show.

Throughout the series, Teddy and his team take on various causes, ranging from rescuing child soldiers in Africa to helping refugees in Bosnia. The show also deals with themes such as corruption, greed, and the politics of humanitarian work.

One of the central themes of the show is Teddy's struggle to come to terms with his own wealth and the privilege it affords him. Despite his philanthropic efforts, Teddy is haunted by the fact that his wealth comes at the expense of others, and he often questions whether his actions are truly making a difference.

The Philanthropist is a thought-provoking series that explores the complexities of humanitarian work and the moral complexities of wealth and privilege. James Purefoy delivers a powerful performance as Teddy Rist, bringing depth and nuance to the character's inner turmoil. The supporting cast is also excellent, and the show does a great job of balancing the action and drama of its humanitarian missions with the personal struggles of its characters.

Overall, The Philanthropist is a compelling series that deals with important themes and features strong performances from its cast. Though it only ran for one season, it remains a memorable and engaging show that is well worth watching.

The Philanthropist
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Seasons
Finale: Haiti
8. Finale: Haiti
August 12, 2009
Teddy and Phillip head to Haiti to help with the food shortage in the country. They run into opposition in Phillip's estranged brother, a powerful political figure who disagrees with Phillip methods.
Kashmir
7. Kashmir
August 5, 2009
When Teddy tries to close a deal with the Indian and Pakistani governments to rebuild a water system in Kashmir, he disappears on his mission.
San Diego
6. San Diego
July 29, 2009
Teddy and Dax follow a paper trail to San Diego, after Teddy becomes a victim of identity theft. Meanwhile, Olivia and Philip discover the investments to Maidstone Rist have been caught up in a Ponzi scheme and the foundation is in trouble.
Kosovo
5. Kosovo
July 22, 2009
Teddy meets his ex-wife Julia and tells her about his journey to Kosovo where he tried to get Serbians and Albanians to work together, but learned that the hatred runs deep.
Nigeria, Part 2
4. Nigeria, Part 2
July 15, 2009
Teddy heads back to Kujama, Nigeria, where he has opened a refinery to help bring in commerce to the small town. However, when local doctor Chima Balo is kidnapped, Teddy must work to get Chima back safely. Back in New York, Philip helps an unemployed friend stay afloat and mentors his young son.
Paris
3. Paris
July 8, 2009
Teddy, Phillip and Olivia fly to Paris for business reasons, when Olivia meets up with an old friend who is entangled in a sex-trafficking ring. Teddy uncovers the a widespread operation, and proceeds to free the captive women.
Myanmar
2. Myanmar
July 1, 2009
After his company is accused of forced labor Teddy visits Myanmar to ask for guidance from a local leader.
Pilot: Nigeria, Part 1
1. Pilot: Nigeria, Part 1
June 24, 2009
Teddy Rist, a wealthy playboy, experiences a life-altering event and becomes an unconventional vigilante.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    June 24, 2009
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (1,547)