Secrets of the Dead

"Unearthing History"

Part detective story, part true-life drama, long-running series explores some of the most iconic moments in history to debunk myths and shed new light on past events. Using the latest investigative techniques, forensic science and historical examination, it shatters accepted wisdom, challenges prevailing ideas, overturns existing hypotheses, spotlights forgotten mysteries, and ultimately rewrites history.

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Created By
Status	Returning Series
Original Name	Secrets of the Dead
First Air Date	May 15, 2000
Last Air Date	October 22, 2025
Seasons	23
Episodes	121
Episode Runtime	NaNmin
Language	English
Original Language	English
Production Countries	United Kingdom, United States of America
Production Companies	Thirteen
Networks	PBS

S23E06

Picturing Shakespeare

There are only two accepted representations of William Shakespeare that are considered "official"—but could a portrait that has been hanging over a family's mantelpiece for the last 50 years be the third? British window washer Steven Wadlow, whose father bought the portrait in the 1960s, is on the hunt to prove the painting is indeed genuine. If so, it could be worth as much as $200 million.

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