PBS is rolling out a packed slate of new primetime and streaming content for Fall 2025, and there’s never been a better time for cord-cutters to dive in. From gripping documentaries and historical deep dives to stunning wildlife footage and world-class performances, PBS is bringing premium programming straight to your living room. The best part is that it’s all available for free with a digital antenna or to stream online and in the PBS app.
Here’s how to watch and what not to miss this fall.
How to Watch PBS Without Cable
PBS content is widely accessible for cord-cutters:
- Live Streaming: More than 100 local PBS stations are available to stream live for free at pbs.org/livestream, as well as on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, iOS, Android, Apple TV, and Chromecast.
- On Demand: Nearly every new program will be available at PBS.org and in the PBS app, with many series offering full-season binges through PBS Passport, the streaming service available to station donors.
Cord-cutters looking to stream PBS without cable have two solid options worth checking out. Frndly TV offers select local PBS stations in many areas, making it one of the most affordable ways to catch PBS content live and on demand. Philo may also include PBS depending on your market, and while it’s primarily known for entertainment channels, it’s a budget-friendly way to expand your streaming lineup. Availability varies by region, so be sure to check both platforms to see which one includes PBS in your area.
September Highlights
- POV returns with gripping documentaries like Driver (Sep. 1), The Age of Water (Sep. 8), and Black Snow (Sep. 15), all airing Mondays at 10 PM ET.
- Becoming Thurgood (Sep. 9) traces Justice Marshall’s rise to the Supreme Court.
- Big Cats 24/7 (Season 2) prowls back onto screens Sep. 10 at 8 PM.
- Sacred Planet with Gulnaz Khan (Wednesdays starting Sep. 10) explores the spiritual side of climate change.
- Antiques Roadshow kicks off its 29th season on Sep. 15 with special themes through November.
October Must-Sees
- Maigret on Masterpiece (Oct. 5) and The Gold on Masterpiece (Oct. 5) stream early via PBS Passport, then air Sundays.
- Great Performances: The Magic of Grace Bumbry (Oct. 3) honors a trailblazing opera star.
- American Masters: Marlee Matlin – Not Alone Anymore (Oct. 14) shares the powerful story of the Oscar-winning Deaf actress.
- Nature and NOVA go deep with Walrus: Life on Thin Ice and Ancient Desert Death Trap (Oct. 22).
- Secrets of the Dead delivers blockbuster episodes weekly, including Cleopatra’s Last Temple (Oct. 15) and Mary Queen of Scots (Oct. 22).
November Standouts
- Independent Lens brings powerful stories like Life After (Nov. 3) and The Last 600 Meters (Nov. 10).
- Ken Burns’ The American Revolution (Nov. 16–21) debuts as a 12-hour, six-part event and is available to binge with the PBS app.
- Great Performances: Twelfth Night (Nov. 14) features an all-star cast, including Peter Dinklage and Sandra Oh.
- The Great Escaper on Masterpiece (Nov. 23) tells the emotional true story of Bernard Jordan (Michael Caine).
- A More Perfect Union (Nov. 24) offers a civic conversation with Ken Burns and others live from the National Constitution Center.
December Celebrations
- American Masters: Starring Dick Van Dyke (Dec. 12) celebrates the 100th birthday of the legendary entertainer.
- Hope of the Season (Dec. 15) features the Tabernacle Choir’s joyful holiday concert.
- The Nutcracker (Dec. 16) airs with a dazzling English National Ballet performance.
- Craft in America explores the artistic spirit of the East and West (Dec. 19).
- POV: Between Goodbyes (Dec. 8) closes the season with an emotional exploration of adoption and reunion.
What’s New for Streamers?
Several international dramas from Walter Presents are dropping full seasons for binge-watching:
- Murder in the Mountains (Season 2) – Nov. 7
- Royal Flying Doctor Service (Season 3) – Nov. 27
- Paradise (Season 9) – Nov. 28
And remember, new episodes of NOVA, Nature, Secrets of the Dead, and Independent Lens continue through December.
Final Tip
To unlock even more content — including full-season binges and extended library access — consider activating PBS Passport through your local PBS station. It’s a small donation with big benefits for fans of quality, thought-provoking programming.
For full schedules, visit PBS.org or check your local listings.