Live Aid at 40: When Rock ’n’ Roll Took on the World

After watching a BBC report on Ethiopia's 'biblical famine,' Bob Geldof puts a band of rock stars together and records a song that sparks a global response, inspiring millions.

Miniseries

S1 • E1

EP 2 ★ 5.7 ⏱ 59 min

Episode 2

Live Aid becomes the biggest global benefit concert, drawing Geldof into charity politics in Africa as he navigates fundraising, controversy and celebrity.

In 2005, Geldof and Bono team up to stage Live 8, a global concert to pressure the world's richest leaders to confront the root causes of poverty in Africa.

Miniseries

S1 • E3

Overview

A look at the legacy of Band Aid, Live Aid and Live 8 in reshaping global charity and politics. Featuring interviews with Bob Geldof, Bono, Sting, and African and western leaders of the time.

First Air Date

2025-07-06

Last Air Date

2025-07-13

Language

English

Network

BBC Two

Credits

Jamal Osman — Producer

Thomas Pollard — Director

Angus Macqueen — Producer

Matt Ashton — Editor

Tanya Shaw — Executive Producer

Norma Percy — Executive Producer

Ian Watt — Director of Photography

Amy Entelis — Executive Producer

Lyle Gamm — Executive Producer

Live Aid at 40: When Rock ’n’ Roll Took on the World (2025)

Overview

First Air Date

Last Air Date

Language

Network

Credits