Great Lives Episodes Available now

Black and British pioneer Kenny Lynch
Veteran black and British entertainer Kenny Lynch.

Chinua Achebe, Nigerian novelist
Yasmin Alibhai-Brown picks Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe.

The Talented Mr Ripley author, Patricia Highsmith
Sometimes known as 'the stalker's balladeer', she is director Jonathan Kent's choice.

Rights activist Cesar Chavez nominated by Cori Crider
Human rights lawyer Cori Crider explains why she is inspired by the life of Cesar Chavez.

Caroline Catz on Delia Derbyshire
Actor Caroline Catz chooses Delia Derbyshire, who realised the theme to Doctor Who.

David Jonsson on Jean Michel Basquiat
Actor David Jonsson champions artist Jean-Michel Basquiat

Rob Rinder on Jessica Mitford
Jessica Mitford is championed by Robert Rinder.

Diane Morgan on Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding
Comedian and actor Diane Morgan chooses the life of Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding

The Great Lives of Great Lives
After 450 episodes, Matthew Parris thinks it's time to find out what makes a great life.

David Spiegelhalter on Frank Ramsey
Statistician David Spiegelhalter champions the short, brilliant life of Frank Ramsey.