The Great Famine
Series Overview
In September 1845, a devastating new plant disease swept across Ireland, destroying the potato crops on which the majority of the people depended. Aid from the British government was too little and too late. Over the subsequent six years, a million Irish people died of starvation and a more than a million others fled abroad in order to escape the ravages of hunger and disease.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
1 Season • 2 Episodes
49 min per episode
1995 – 1995
Premiered: Mon, Sep 4, 1995
Creative Production Team
Latest Aired Episode
Season 1, Episode 2: “Emigration”
In the second of two programmes, Dublin-born writer Ian Gibson tells how thousands of the Irish poor died on board the "coffin ships" that carried them across the Atlantic to the fever sheds of Quebec and the slums of New York. He explores some of the myths of famine history, finding them to be more complicated than on superficial examination, and explains how the bitter experience of the mass emigration has shaped Irish-American support for nationalist causes, from the Fenians to the Irish Republican Army.
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
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Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Pete Lawrence
John Percival
Department Leadership Roster
Pete Lawrence
Director
John Percival
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Great Famine.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Great Famine
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is The Great Famine about?
In September 1845, a devastating new plant disease swept across Ireland, destroying the potato crops on which the majority of the people depended. Aid from the British government was too little and too late. Over the subsequent six years, a million Irish people died of starvation and a more than a million others fled abroad in order to escape the ravages of hunger and disease.
How many seasons does The Great Famine have?
The Great Famine comprises 1 season available to explore.
Who stars in The Great Famine?
Key cast members in The Great Famine include Ian Gibson.
Who created or directed The Great Famine?
The Great Famine was developed and directed by Pete Lawrence.