Watch The Reagans

The Reagans is a four-part documentary series that aired on Showtime in 2020. It tells the story of Ronald Reagan, one of the most consequential presidents in modern American history, and his complicated relationship with his wife Nancy. The series is a combination of archival footage and interviews with key players who were involved in Reagan's administration.

The show takes a deep dive into the political and cultural events of the 1980s, a time when Reagan's conservative policies transformed American society. It explores Reagan's rise from Hollywood actor to governor of California, and ultimately his inauguration as the 40th president of the United States. The Reagans also sheds light on the role Nancy Reagan played in her husband's presidency, particularly in shaping his views on social issues such as abortion and gay rights.

The first episode, titled "The Hollywood Myth Machine", focuses on Reagan's early years in showbiz and the image he projected to the American public. It explores his role as a spokesperson for General Electric, which helped launch his career in politics, and his emergence as a conservative hero during the tumultuous 1960s. The episode also delves into Reagan's personal life, including his divorce from his first wife and his courtship of Nancy.

The second episode, "The Right Turn", examines how Reagan's conservative ideology took hold during his time as governor of California in the 1960s and 1970s. It explores his views on taxes, welfare, and law and order, and the ways in which he used his executive powers to implement these ideas. The episode also introduces some of the key players who would later serve in Reagan's White House, including Ed Meese and Michael Deaver.

The third episode, "A Teflon Presidency", focuses on Reagan's time in the White House, and his ability to navigate high-stakes situations with his trademark charm and optimism. It covers some of the major events of Reagan's presidency, including the assassination attempt in 1981, his meetings with Mikhail Gorbachev, and the Iran-Contra scandal. The episode also explores Nancy Reagan's role as first lady, including her efforts to combat drug abuse through the "Just Say No" campaign.

The final episode, "The Age of Individualism", looks at the broader cultural and social changes that took place during Reagan's presidency, and the ways in which his policies reflected these shifts. It explores the rise of the religious right, the emergence of the AIDS epidemic, and the challenges faced by women and minorities in the 1980s. The episode concludes with a reflection on Reagan's legacy, and the ways in which his presidency continues to influence American politics today.

Overall, The Reagans is a thought-provoking and engaging look at one of the most significant figures in modern American history. It offers a nuanced and complex portrait of Reagan, one that goes beyond the simplistic image of the "great communicator" and explores the contradictions and complexities of his political worldview. With its compelling blend of archival footage and interviews, The Reagans is a must-watch for anyone interested in American politics and culture.

The Reagans is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between November 30, 2003 and on Showtime