
Legacy
From Wondery and Goalhanger Podcasts, Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and women ever to have lived – and ask whether they have the rep they deserve. Should Nina Simone’s role in the civil rights movement be more celebrated than it is? When you find out what Picasso got up to in his studio, can you still admire his art? Was Napoleon a hero or a tyrant - or both? (And, while we’re at it, was he even short?) Legacy is the show that looks at big lives from the perspective of now – and doesn’t always like what it sees.Listen to Legacy on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/legacy now.
Latest episodes

13 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 46min
Winston Churchill | Born To Rule | 1
Winston Churchill's life is a tapestry of complexity. From his aristocratic upbringing to his adventures in war journalism, each experience shaped his ambition. His obsession with mortality drove him toward peril, while his political evolution revealed contradictions in ideology. The narrative uncovers his Boer War bravery, highlighting a daring escape and early political awakening. Despite his heroic image, the discussion probes into the imperialist views that complicate his legacy, making him a figure both revered and scrutinized.

8 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 44min
John F. Kennedy | Camelot Comes Crashing Down | 4
Dive into the gripping story of John F. Kennedy's assassination, a pivotal moment filled with conspiracy theories and lasting repercussions. Explore the turbulent final days of his presidency and the emotional aftermath following his death. Unravel the complexities of JFK's legacy—was he a champion of civil rights or a flawed leader? Discover the chilling profile of Lee Harvey Oswald and the skepticism surrounding the lone gunman narrative. Reflect on what might have been if JFK had survived, especially regarding the Vietnam War.

15 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 52min
John F. Kennedy | Clash of The Cold Warriors | 3
John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, is known for his leadership during the Cuban Missile Crisis and his ambitious vision for a New Frontier. In this discussion, he shares insights on navigating Cold War tensions and the what-ifs of military decisions. The fallout from the Bay of Pigs invasion is examined, showcasing the delicate balance between diplomacy and defense. Kennedy also reflects on the clash with Khrushchev at the Vienna summit and the competing interests between government and industry during his presidency.

12 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 54min
John F. Kennedy | Violence at Home and Abroad | 2
Dive into JFK's rise from personal tragedy to political prominence. Discover the profound impact of his early years and the pressures of his legacy. Explore the complexities of his campaign, notably his romance with Jackie amid pressing societal issues. Witness the dramatic televised debates that shaped Kennedy's image against Richard Nixon. Uncover the challenges of the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban crisis, showcasing JFK's moral dilemmas and his stance on civil rights during a tumultuous era.

20 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 48min
John F. Kennedy | The Poor Little Rich Boy | 1
John F. Kennedy's childhood paints a portrait of privilege shadowed by family dysfunction. His strict mother and woman's man father shaped a complex legacy of ambition and resilience. As a Harvard graduate, he embarked on a heroic journey during WWII, illustrating a compelling transformation. Personal challenges fueled his political aspirations amidst global turmoil. Discover the intricate interplay of family dynamics, youthful dreams, and the defining moments that would set the stage for his leadership on the world stage.

Oct 9, 2024 • 29min
Marilyn Monroe | Who Killed the Movie Star? | 4
The podcast delves into the life and tragic death of Marilyn Monroe, revealing the chaos surrounding her last hours. It unearths conspiracy theories related to her relationships with the Kennedys and speculations about her untimely demise. The discussion highlights her legacy in Hollywood, focusing on her impact on sexuality, feminism, and empowerment. Additionally, it explores her quest for authenticity, contrasting her public image with her true self, and examines how her fame continues to shape cultural and societal discussions today.

Oct 2, 2024 • 47min
Marilyn Monroe | Drama, Drink and Drugs | 3
Marilyn Monroe, the iconic actress and model, candidly shares her journey of fame marred by insecurities and addiction. She discusses her struggles in Hollywood, including navigating the male-dominated film industry and her quest for artistic recognition. The podcast explores her complex relationships, notably with Arthur Miller, and her harrowing experiences on set. Marilyn also reflects on the tangled web of glamour, personal crises, and the weight of societal expectations, revealing the poignant struggles behind her renowned public persona.

Sep 25, 2024 • 47min
Marilyn Monroe | Becoming Marilyn | 2
In a captivating discussion, the iconic Marilyn Monroe delves into her tumultuous journey from struggling starlet to Hollywood legend. She reveals the exploitation she faced and her strategic reinvention into the iconic blonde bombshell. Monroe shares intimate confessions about the scandalous choices she made amidst intense scrutiny. The complexities of her relationships, her battle against the 'dumb blonde' stereotype, and her fierce independence are highlighted, showcasing her determination to establish her own path in a male-dominated industry.

9 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 40min
Marilyn Monroe | The Foster Kid Who Loved The Movies | 1
In this touching discussion, young Marilyn Monroe shares her tumultuous journey from a troubled childhood filled with foster homes to finding solace in the magical world of movies. She reveals how her love for cinema became a refuge from the harsh realities of life, including her mother's struggles and her father's absence. Marilyn opens up about the trauma that shaped her, the misunderstood complexities of her identity, and her bold leap into the limelight as she transitioned from model to movie star, striving to embrace her true self amidst the Hollywood chaos.

Sep 11, 2024 • 35min
Encore: Cecil Rhodes | Must Rhodes Fall? | 4
The podcast dives into the contentious legacy of Cecil Rhodes, exploring student protests over his statue and its significance at the University of Cape Town. Voices from Zimbabwe reflect on the lasting impact of colonialism and land reforms, highlighting social inequalities. The discussion also tackles the ethical dilemmas surrounding initiatives like the Rhodes Scholarship. Personal stories of survival during Zimbabwe's hyperinflation reveal the ongoing struggle against historical injustices, challenging listeners to reconsider how we address our colonial past.