Sean Smith

This special takes a 21st century approach to ancient history, bringing together the latest scientific evidence to build the ultimate picture of King Tutankhamun.

This special takes a 21st century approach to ancient history, bringing together the latest scientific evidence to build the ultimate picture of King Tutankhamun.

Mary Magdalene's encounter with the resurrected Jesus was the spark that ignited the flame of Christendom. Some argue that had it not been for her, Christianity would not have come into existence. But instead of praise her as one of the founders of the faith, the Gospels tell us hardly anything about her. The church of the early days called her a prostitute, and Western art and literature have constantly reinvented her story over the centuries. She remains one of the most mysterious women in history. This program goes in search of the real Mary Magdalene.

Who Really Killed Jesus?: The story of Jesus’ death has typically been presented from one point of view. The traditional version, as recorded in the Bible, holds that the Jewish High Priests demanded his execution and that the Jewish crowd bayed for his blood. The Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, who was prepared to set Christ free, gave in to the mob’s demands and ordered his crucifixion. In case there were any lingering doubts about the Roman’s innocence, the Bible provides the compelling image of Pilate washing his hands – symbolically absolving himself of Jesus’ death. But how accurate are the accounts in the Gospels? Does this portrait of a weak-willed Pilate stand up to historical scrutiny? This film re-examines the killing of Christ, placing Pontius Pilate at the centre of the investigation.