Watch Churchill's Secret Agents: The New Recruits

Churchill's Secret Agents: The New Recruits is a fascinating, intense and thrilling documentary series that delves into the world of espionage during World War II. The show follows a group of modern-day volunteers who are tasked with reliving the experiences of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), a secret organisation established by Winston Churchill himself.

The show is hosted by actor Douglas Henshall, who offers a compelling and informative insight into the world of espionage, while also guiding the new recruits through their journey. The volunteers are a diverse group of individuals, from all walks of life and with varying degrees of experience.

Throughout the series, the new recruits are put through a series of rigorous tests and training exercises, to prepare them for the extreme physical and mental challenges they will face. They learn a range of skills, from covert radio communication and sabotage, to lock-picking and unarmed combat.

The show is a remarkable example of historical recreation, as the volunteers are thrust into the world of espionage during World War II, experiencing the same challenges and dangers as their SOE counterparts. Filmed on location in the UK, the show offers an authentic and immersive experience, bringing history to life in a way that is both educational and entertaining.

One of the most fascinating elements of the show is the portrayal of the SOE, a secretive organisation that played a crucial role in the Allied victory. The show explores the SOE's daring missions, which included everything from assassination attempts to sabotage operations, and reveals the incredible courage and skill required to carry out such operations.

The new recruits face numerous challenges throughout the show, including operating a radio transmitter while under enemy surveillance, picking locks in a safe house, and successfully completing a sabotage mission. Each episode presents a new set of challenges, with the recruits pushed to their limits both physically and mentally.

The show also delves into the personal stories of the SOE agents and their struggles with the immense pressure and danger that they faced. For many, the experience had a profound impact, with some agents suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues.

The documentary series also features interviews with experts and historians, who provide a deeper understanding of the historical context and significance of the SOE's operations. The interviews also highlight the importance of the SOE's work in shaping the outcome of the war.

Churchill's Secret Agents: The New Recruits is a thrilling, intense and informative series that offers a unique insight into the world of espionage during World War II. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, espionage, or military operations. The show successfully recreates a pivotal period in history, offering a compelling and authentic glimpse into the lives of the brave men and women who helped shape the outcome of the war.

Churchill's Secret Agents: The New Recruits is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between April 10, 2018 and on BBC Two