Documentary Legend Sounds Alarm on American Democracy
In a revealing podcast episode released on Thursday, February 26, 2026, celebrated documentary filmmaker Ken Burns delivered a sobering assessment of American democracy, stating unequivocally that the nation is "not out of the woods" when it comes to the challenges facing its political system. The special episode of "The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim" features Burns reflecting on the United States' journey as it approaches the 250th anniversary of independence later this year.
A Lifetime of Historical Storytelling
With more than four decades of filmmaking experience, Ken Burns has established himself as one of America's most respected documentary creators. His impressive career includes multiple Emmy and Grammy awards, and his distinctive visual style has become so influential that it spawned "the Ken Burns effect" - a panning and zooming technique now widely used in documentary filmmaking.
Burns' most recent undertaking represents perhaps his most ambitious project to date: a comprehensive six-part series on the American Revolution that required a full decade of research and production by Burns and his team at PBS. This monumental work serves as both a historical examination and a timely reflection on the nation's founding principles.
Concerns About the Current Political Climate
During his conversation with host Yalda Hakim, Burns expressed particular apprehension about the state of American democracy under the leadership of Donald Trump. The filmmaker discussed why he felt compelled to undertake the American Revolution project at this specific moment in history, citing what he perceives as critical challenges to democratic institutions and norms.
Burns detailed the painstaking process behind creating his latest documentary series, emphasizing how the historical research informed his understanding of contemporary political developments. His concerns extend beyond partisan politics to fundamental questions about the resilience of democratic systems and the preservation of constitutional principles.
A Timely Reflection on National Identity
The podcast episode arrives at a significant historical juncture as the United States prepares to commemorate 250 years since declaring independence. Burns uses this milestone as an opportunity to examine both where America has been and where it might be headed, drawing connections between revolutionary-era struggles and modern political tensions.
Listeners can access the full conversation through their preferred podcast applications or view the recorded discussion on Sky News' YouTube channel. The episode represents part of the network's ongoing coverage of global affairs through "The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim," which regularly features in-depth conversations with prominent figures across politics, culture, and academia.
Sky News continues to provide comprehensive analysis of American politics and its implications for democratic systems worldwide, with particular attention to the administration of Donald Trump and its impact on institutional norms and international relations.
