Skip to main content
Back to Show
In Their Own Words

The King Is Dead — Long Live the Queen!

Upon the death of her father, King George VI, in January 1952, 25-year old Elizabeth II becomes Queen. Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, are in Africa when they learn of the King’s passing and return to London for the state funeral. The coronation takes place after a period of mourning, on June 2, 1953.

Support Provided By
Season
Angela Merkel
Unlock with PBS Passport
51:35
Angela Merkel’s life story reveals the woman behind the veil.
Elon Musk
Unlock with PBS Passport
51:16
Elon Musk's story is about a thrilling 21st century "Iron Man" come alive.
Jimmy Carter
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:18
Get a revealing new look at the life of former President Jimmy Carter.
Princess Diana
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:05
Explore how Princess Diana evolved into one of the most impactful icons of our time.
Chuck Berry
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:20
Meet the legend, music, and man who is regularly credited as the father of rock and roll.
Pope Francis
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:59
See the experiences that led Pope Francis to the highest office in the Catholic church.
Jim Henson
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:40
Explore the life and career of Muppet creator Jim Henson.
Muhammad Ali
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:40
Explore boxer Muhammad Ali’s rise from Louisville boxing to international fame.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip next to her.
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:40
Explore Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable life, from childhood through her six-decade reign.
Active loading indicator