PBS Passport is a special streaming service offered as a benefit to supporters of PBS, a non-profit organization. By donating to PBS, you can access the extended version of the PBS Video streaming app, which features over 1000 programs, including exclusive content.
With PBS Passport, you can enjoy a wide array of shows, from genealogy series like “Finding Your Roots” to period dramas like “Poldark.” However, you might be wondering what exactly PBS Passport offers, how to access it, whether it’s worth it, and what kinds of shows are available. Let’s delve into each of these questions.
What is PBS Passport?
PBS Passport is essentially a thank-you gift for donors to PBS. As a streaming app, it provides access to a rich library of content, including Masterpiece shows, documentaries, foreign dramas, new premieres, and exclusive films. The content library is vast and frequently updated.
An interesting aspect of PBS Passport is its local customization. When you donate to your local PBS station and sign into the app, you’ll access both nationally available PBS content and locally relevant programs. This means your experience might slightly differ based on your local PBS station’s offerings.
Is PBS Passport Free?
No, PBS Passport is not free; you need to donate at least $60 a year or $5/month to gain access. While the PBS Video app itself is free, exclusive Passport content requires this minimum donation. Your contribution supports PBS’s mission to provide educational, entertaining, and inspirational programming to viewers across the U.S., and it is also tax-deductible.
How Do I Watch PBS Passport?
Here are the steps to access PBS Passport:
1. Become a Member: Visit the PBS website and click on the “Become a Member” button to donate to your local PBS station. After your donation, you’ll receive a confirmation email with activation instructions.
2. Activate: Once your donation is processed, you’ll get an activation code or link. Enter this code on the PBS activation page, sign in with your PBS account, and link it to your Passport benefit.
3. Sign In: Go to PBS.org, sign in using the same login information, and ensure you see the blue Passport compass rose next to your name.
4. Watch: Start enjoying Passport shows on PBS.org or through the PBS Video app available on various devices like Apple TV, Amazon Fire, and Roku.
PBS Passport vs. PBS Masterpiece
There can be some confusion between PBS Passport and the PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel. The key difference is that PBS Masterpiece is a regular subscription service on Amazon, while PBS Passport is an exclusive benefit for PBS donors. They also have different content libraries, though there is some overlap.
Is PBS Passport Worth It?
Yes, PBS Passport is worth considering for several reasons. First, it allows you to support PBS, contributing to the continuation of quality programming. Second, you gain extended and early access to many beloved PBS TV shows and period dramas. Additionally, you can watch newly premiered dramas, like the entirety of a new season before it airs weekly on TV.
The 50 Best PBS Passport Shows to Watch
Here is a curated list of PBS Passport shows to get you started, ranging from historical dramas and mysteries to educational documentaries:
1. All Creatures Great and Small (2020-): A charming series about a veterinarian in 1930s Yorkshire, filled with heartwarming stories and cute animals.
2. American Experience (1987-): A history series bringing to life compelling stories from America’s past.
3. American Masters (1985-): Biographical documentaries about figures who have shaped America’s cultural history.
4. Annika (2021-): A Masterpiece mystery series starring Nicola Walker as the head of Glasgow’s Marine Homicide Unit.
5. Antiques Roadshow (1997-): Specialists appraise antiques and collectibles, revealing fascinating histories.
6. Around the World in 80 Days (2021-): An adventurous adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic novel, starring David Tennant.
7. Atlantic Crossing (2020): A miniseries about the WWII relationship between Franklin Roosevelt and Norwegian Crown Princess Martha.
8. Baptiste (2019-2021): A detective series following Julien Baptiste as he investigates crimes linked to human trafficking.
9. Beecham House (2019): A period drama set in 19th century Delhi, focusing on a former soldier’s new life.
10. Broadchurch (2013-2017): A gripping mystery series starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman.
… and many more.
Other Notable Mentions
Some additional series worth checking out on PBS Passport include “Call the Midwife,” “Downton Abbey,” “Endeavour,” “Finding Your Roots,” “Grantchester,” “Victoria,” and “World on Fire.” For a full list and updates, visit the PBS Passport catalog regularly.
Coming Soon
A new adaptation of “Tom Jones” is set to premiere on PBS and PBS Passport on April 30, 2023, featuring a stellar cast and promising to be an exciting watch.
Bonus Content
Besides the main shows, PBS Passport offers a variety of additional programs like “Nature,” “Nova,” and “Independent Lens.” You can explore exclusive documentaries, local content, and even quirky favorites like “Mr. Bean.”
Overall, PBS Passport provides a wealth of high-quality content for donors, making it a valuable service for those passionate about educational and entertaining programming.
