Name: Hostages
Released: 2022-09-28T00:00:00.000Z

TV Show · Documentary · History

A docuseries that explores the Iran Hostage Crisis of 1979, including never-before-seen archival footage and revelatory new interviews with the American hostages and Iranian hostage-takers, and the resounding consequences of the situation.

2022 · 59m

EPISODE 1

The Peacock Throne

As the American-backed Shah flees the revolution against his regime, religious cleric Ayatollah Khomeini rises to power and an Islamic theocracy is put in place; the U.S. embassy falls under grave threat.
EPISODE 2

Den of Spies

An exploration of the chaos that unfolded on the first days of the hostage crisis; events take a turn when Khomeini sanctions the takeover and the hostage-taking becomes a watershed moment of Khomeini's repressive regime.
EPISODE 3

The Sand Storm

The Carter administration's attempts at diplomatic means to secure the hostages failed; Pres. Carter then initiated Operation Eagle Claw, but it was a disaster; eight service members died, and the hostages were no closer to home.
EPISODE 4

The Transaction

As the presidential election of 1980 was approaching, Iran and America were still locked in a stalemate after a year of fighting and negotiating; ultimately, the hostages were released on Pres. Reagan's inauguration day.