Virgin Media O2 Logo in white
  • HomeHome
  • The EditThe Edit
  • TVTV
  • Celebrate Black History Month on Virgin TV

Black History Month on Virgin TV: Celebrate Black history with three superb collections

October is Black History Month, and we’re celebrating Black stories all month long with our curated collections covering movies, drama, comedy and documentaries

By Teresa Rodriguez, Feature Writer

Published
7 October 2026

On Virgin TV, we’re celebrating Black stories throughout October, which is Black History Month in the UK and beyond. All the TV shows and films in our Black History Month collection are compelling and profound, as well as entertaining, but they also serve as an opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions that Black and mixed-heritage people have made to culture and society.

Our Black History Month collection explores stories about the racism and other obstacles that Black people have faced, and their achievements in the face of these challenges, as well as giving viewers the tools to challenge negative stereotypes. We also have shows and films that honour Black cultural successes, including leading actors and world-conquering musicians, across three collections: Iconic Movies, Real Stories and Stars Of The Small Screen.

To find the collection, if you watch on Virgin TV 360 or Stream, press the Home button on your remote and navigate to the MOVIES or TV SHOWS section in the top menu, then look for the FEATURED section, where you can find curated Collections featuring hand-picked titles. You can also search for individual titles in the normal way, including our powerful voice search (if your box has that function) by holding down the microphone button on your TV remote.

Here are some of the shows and movies you can watch:

Iconic Movies

If you watch on Virgin TV 360 or Stream, find this collection in HOME > MOVIES > FEATURED.

Sinners

Stream it now in Sky Cinema on demand. Cert 15

The director-star team of Ryan Coogler and Michael B Jordan (Creed, Black Panther) joined forces again in one of the biggest hits of 2025. Set in the 1930s, Jordan plays twin brothers who return to their hometown to open a dance club, never suspecting it’s going to be overrun by vampires. As a supernatural musical period horror with a predominantly Black cast, it’s a true original. Also starring Wunmi Mosaku, Delroy Lindo and Hailee Steinfeld.

Amazing Grace

Stream it now in Sky Cinema on demand. Cert PG

For more than 40 years, this remarkable concert film remained unseen. Capturing Aretha Franklin's legendary 1972 gospel performances at a Los Angeles church, Amazing Grace showcases the Queen of Soul at her most powerful and personal, delivering the recordings that would become one of the best-selling gospel albums of all time.

Boyz n the Hood

Stream it now in Sky Cinema on demand. Cert 15

John Singleton's groundbreaking directorial debut follows three friends growing up in South Central Los Angeles as they navigate family, friendship and the opportunities and challenges that shape their futures. The film's honest portrayal of friendship, family and everyday life in South Central Los Angeles struck a chord with audiences and helped introduce a new perspective to mainstream cinema.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Stream it now in Apps > Disney+ or just say "Disney+". Cert 12

Returning to the world of Wakanda after the loss of King T'Challa, this sequel explores grief, family and the responsibility of leadership in the face of new threats. Alongside its breathtaking action and stunning visuals, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is a heartfelt tribute to Chadwick Boseman and a celebration of the legacy his character left behind.

Get Out

Stream it now in Sky Cinema on demand. Cert 15

What starts as an awkward weekend meeting the parents soon turns into something far more unsettling in Jordan Peele's brilliantly original thriller. Get Out combines psychological horror with sharp social commentary and the film became a cultural phenomenon on release and remains one of the most talked-about and influential movies of the past decade.

Beverly Hills Cop

Stream it now in Paramount+. Cert 15

Before he became one of Hollywood's biggest stars, Eddie Murphy lit up the screen as Detroit detective Axel Foley, whose wisecracks and unconventional methods land him in the upscale world of Beverly Hills. Blending action, comedy and Murphy's irresistible charisma, Beverly Hills Cop became one of the defining films of the 1980s and helped establish Murphy as one of the first Black actors to headline a hugely successful action-comedy franchise.

Stars Of The Small Screen

If you watch on Virgin TV 360 or Stream, find this collection in HOME > TV SHOWS > FEATURED.

Fightland

Stream it now in Sky Atlantic. Cert 15

Set within the corrupt underbelly of London's elite boxing world, power, money and violence are controlled by the formidable Marshall crime family. When disgraced former champion Duke Kilroy returns seeking revenge against the people who destroyed his career, he finds himself drawn into a brutal battle that threatens to bring the family empire crashing down. Fightland blends gripping crime drama, family betrayal and high-stakes action, where the most dangerous fights take place far beyond the ring.

Pierre

Stream it now in Apps > Channel 4

Life rarely goes exactly to plan, and Pierre explores the twists, challenges and relationships that shape one man's journey. The series follows its central character as he navigates the ups and downs of modern life. Warm, thoughtful and easy to get invested in, it's the kind of drama that draws you in through its characters and keeps you watching to see where life takes them next.

Godfather of Harlem

Stream it now in Apps > Disney+ or just say “Disney+”

Forest Whitaker delivers a commanding performance as notorious crime boss Bumpy Johnson in this drama inspired by real events. Set in 1960s Harlem, the series follows Johnson's fight to regain control of his neighbourhood while navigating rival gangs, political tensions and the growing civil rights movement. Godfather of Harlem blends crime drama with crucial moments from history to create a series that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining

Neagley

Stream it now in Apps > Prime Video. Cert 15

Fans of Reacher will already know Frances Neagley as the sharp and independent investigator who's always one step ahead. This spin-off puts her firmly in the spotlight as she takes on a new mystery that draws on all her instincts, determination and expertise.An easy series to get hooked on, whether you're a long-time Reacher fan or meeting Neagley for the first time.

Three Little Birds

Stream it now in Apps > ITVX

Created by Sir Lenny Henry and inspired by the experiences of his mother and the Windrush generation, Three Little Birds follows three young Jamaican women as they leave home for a new life in Britain during the 1950s. Warm, heartfelt and at times moving, it's a story about friendship, family and resilience, offering a powerful glimpse into an important chapter of British history.

From

Available now on Sky One

What starts as a simple road trip quickly turns into a fight for survival when a group of strangers find themselves trapped in a mysterious town they can't escape. With every answer leading to even more questions, From has earned a devoted fanbase thanks to its eerie atmosphere, compelling characters and constant sense of unease. Great for those evenings asking for "just one more episode".

Real Stories

If you watch on Virgin TV 360 or Stream, find this collection in HOME > TV SHOWS > FEATURED.

Seen And Heard: The History Of Black TV

Stream it now in Sky Documentaries on demand

Insecure’s Issa Rae executive produces this two-part documentary chronicling the rise of Black people in American television, from creatives like Ava DuVernay (When They See Us) and Rae herself to mega-powerful execs such as Shonda Rhimes (Grey’s Anatomy, Bridgerton) and Oprah Winfrey. It shows how they carved out a niche and makes the case for opportunity at all levels of the industry.

Clash of Nations: Joe Louis vs Max Schmeling

Stream it now in Sky History from 4 October. Cert 12

Set against the rise of fascism in Europe and racial segregation in the United States, this special follows the parallel lives and careers of American Joe Louis and German Max Schmeling as they overcome social and political obstacles on their way to two historic matchups in the ring, and a pivotal place in history.

Michelle Obama: Life After the White House

Available now in STV Player. Cert PG

Few public figures have connected with people around the world quite like Michelle Obama. This documentary follows her life beyond the White House, exploring her work as an author, advocate and champion for education and equality. More than a story about public life, it's a chance to see Michelle Obama in a different light as she faces new challenges, pursues new passions and continues to inspire people around the world.

Stax: Soulsville U.S.A

Available now in Sky Documentaries. Cert 15

Behind some of the greatest soul music ever recorded was Stax Records, the legendary Memphis label that launched the careers of artists including Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes and Booker T & the M.G.'s. Packed with incredible music and fascinating archive footage, Stax: Soulsville U.S.A. tells the story of a record label that helped shape a generation and left a lasting mark on popular culture.

Blind Eye Artist

Stream it now in Sky Arts on demand. Cert PG

Blinded in one eye as a child, Justin Wadlington defied the odds to turn his passion for art into an internationally recognised career. Blind Eye Artist charts his remarkable path from hardship to artistic acclaim, revealing the perseverance, talent and ambition behind his inspiring success story.

Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive

Available now in Sky Arts.

Most people know Gloria Gaynor for I Will Survive, but there's much more to her story than one iconic song. This documentary looks back at her journey through fame, setbacks and reinvention, revealing the resilience and determination that helped her become one of music's most enduring voices. Along the way, it's a chance to get to know the woman behind the anthem and discover the experiences that shaped her career.

Please note, if you watch TV on our TiVo® box or Virgin TV V6 box (powered by TiVo®), you can access all the on-demand movies and TV here but you won’t be able to navigate to the collections. But it’s super simple to upgrade to our latest Virgin TV box by contacting us on 0345 454 1111 (or call 150 from a Virgin Media phone).


Love watching the latest shows?

Explore our amazing TV deals and never miss a moment of entertainment.


TV channels: Channels, content and features available depend on your chosen package. Channel line-ups and content are subject to change at any time and to regional variations.

HD: HD TV set, V HD Box, TiVo box or Virgin TV V6 connected with HDMI cables required for HD channels. Number of inclusive HD channels depends on package.

Catch Up TV: Catch Up TV content available for up to 7 days or up to 30 days after broadcast, depending on content.

Premium channels (add-ons): 30 days’ notice required to remove premium channels/packs.

Sky Cinema On Demand: Sky Cinema subscription required.

TV Go: Content available to view depends on TV package. Not all channels/content from relevant pack available. Live streaming and On Demand requires broadband/WiFi or 3G/4G/5G access. UK only. Access via PC, Mac or TV Go App (selected iOS devices and Android™ devices only). Maximum 5 compatible devices per account can watch TV. Maximum 2 compatible devices per account can watch TV simultaneously.

Netflix: Netflix subscription required at extra cost.

Virgin Media Store: Separate terms and conditions apply to the Virgin Media Store service. Purchases must be made on the website or set top box. Virgin TV subscription and our latest Virgin TV V6 box required to buy and watch via set top box – Store is not available on other boxes. Compatible device & browser required. Max 5 registered devices. Max 2 devices can stream content simultaneously. Stream and download in UK only.

Virgin Movies On Demand: Virgin Movies On Demand movies are pay by title. Once rented, content available for 48 hours.

On Demand: Content available to view depends on TV package. Time limits apply for viewing chargeable On Demand content – see virginmedia.com. Once purchased, all chargeable On Demand content must be viewed within 48 hours. Premium channels and upgrades must be kept for at least 30 days.

Virgin TV 360 Box: Not available with full fibre. Minimum of M50 Fibre Broadband required for operation. Boxes require a HDMI cable to connect to your TV. Catch Up TV: Catch Up TV content available for seven days after broadcast.

Virgin Stream box: Virgin Media broadband required (min. 50 Mbps). Compatible with Hub 3 and above. Stream box requires an HDMI cable connected to TV. HD TV set and a Stream box connected with HDMI cables required for viewing HD channels. Number of inclusive HD channels depends on package. 4K compatible TV/device required to watch Ultra HD. Stream box and remote remain property of Virgin Media. 

Flex: Virgin Media broadband required (min. 50 Mbps). Not available with other Virgin Media TV services. Compatible with Hub 3 and above. Stream box requires an HDMI cable connected to TV. HD TV set and a Stream box connected with HDMI cables required for viewing HD channels. Number of inclusive HD channels depends on package. 4K compatible TV/device required to watch Ultra HD. Stream box and remote remain property of Virgin Media. There is a £5 a month charge for Flex service, and a one-off activation fee of £35 may apply, along with charges & terms for each Flex entertainment subscription chosen. Some Flex subscriptions require 30 days’ notice to cancel. New Virgin Media broadband customers subject to 18 month contract and set up fees may apply. See full details.