Marking the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings, D-Day 80: The Allies Prepare airs on BBC One on Wednesday, 5 June. Hosted by Dame Helen Mirren, this special programme recounts the story of the build-up and preparations for the historic D-Day landings.
The episode explores how the Allies united to launch the largest naval, air, and land operation in history, a campaign that ultimately changed the course of World War II and led to the fall of Hitler’s Nazi regime. It celebrates the bravery and achievements of the D-Day veterans and honors those who made sacrifices, recognizing the invaluable contributions of the home front in making the Normandy landings possible.
Through powerful spoken word testimony, live performances, and music, the programme reflects on the challenges faced and the commitment that sustained the veterans through battle. Presented by Anita Rani, with reporting by JJ Chalmers, D-Day 80: The Allies Prepare also includes accessible commentary for the blind and partially sighted, provided by Petroc Trelawny.
D-Day 80: The Allies Prepare airs Wednesday, 5 June 2024, at 10:15 am on BBC One.