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The Donner Party

7.019921h 30mMovieDocumentaryHistory

Doomed attempt to get to California in 1846. More than just a riveting tale of death, endurance and survival. The Donner Party's nightmarish journey penetrated to the very heart of the American Dream at a crucial phase of the nation's…

DirectorRic Burns
WriterRic Burns
ProducersRic Burns·Lisa Ades

Where to watch

PBS Documentaries Amazon ChannelPBS Documentaries Amazon Channel
Availability shown for United States · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Ric Burns

DMDavid McCullough
David McCullough
Narrator (voice)
JCJ.D. Cannon
J.D. Cannon
voice
THTimothy Hutton
Timothy Hutton
voice
GJGene Jones
Gene Jones
voice
AMAmy Madigan
Amy Madigan
voice
DMDonal McCann
Donal McCann
voice
GPGeorge Plimpton
George Plimpton
voice
PRPaul Roebling
Paul Roebling
voice
LSLois Smith
Lois Smith
voice
FSFrances Sternhagen
Frances Sternhagen
voice
EWEli Wallach
Eli Wallach
voice

More from David McCullough · Lead actor

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More from J.D. Cannon · Co-star actor

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More from Ric Burns · Director

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2020 · 8.0
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The Donner Party — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams The Donner Party?

The Donner Party is streaming on PBS Documentaries in United States, and available to rent or buy on Amazon Video. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is The Donner Party on Netflix?

No, The Donner Party is not on Netflix in United States as of November 2026. It's currently on PBS Documentaries.

Is The Donner Party on Amazon Prime Video?

The Donner Party isn't included with a Prime Video subscription in United States, but you can rent or buy it on Amazon Video.

Where can I watch The Donner Party for free?

The Donner Party is available on PBS Documentaries in United States, but you'll need an active subscription — there's no free option right now.