January at WHUT: New Year, New Stories — Drama, Discovery & Cultural Celebration

What does the new year bring to WHUT? A fresh lineup of dramas, documentaries, and cultural specials that inspire reflection, spark conversation, and celebrate community. From gripping crime thrillers to heartfelt tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., January’s programming is packed with stories that matter — and stories you won’t want to miss.

Luther Starring Idris Elba

New Year, New Drama Nights

Starting Wednesday, Jan. 7, WHUT introduces a dedicated drama block at 8pm and 9pm:

• D.I. Ray – Wed, Jan. 7 at 9pm
  Follow British Asian detective Rachita Ray as she navigates cultural complexities and crime in this six-part thriller.

• Luther – Wed, Jan. 7 at 10pm
  Idris Elba returns as the brilliant but troubled detective in this psychological crime series.

  Encore: Both dramas repeat on Saturday nights at 8pm and 9pm. “Drama isn’t just entertainment — it’s a mirror to society.”

  Spotlight: Public Defender & Democracy

  On the eve of the January 6 anniversary, WHUT presents Public Defender:

• Sun, Jan. 4 at 7pm; Replay Tue, Jan. 6 at 8pm
A DC-based public defender and her Jan. 6 clients confront America’s divide with unexpected humor and humanity — showing a way back to trust and accountability.

Celebrating Women & Cultural Icons

Kick off the year with inspiring stories of women breaking barriers:

• Women’s Work: The Untold Story of America’s Female Farmers – Fri, Jan. 2 at 8pm

• Groundbreakers – Fri, Jan. 2 at 9pm

  Explore women’s contributions to agriculture, sports, and society.

Finding Your Roots Returns

Henry Louis Gates Jr. is back with Season 12:

• Thurs, Jan. 15 at 8pm
Featuring America Ferrera and Darren Criss uncovering immigrant roots and revolutionary ancestors.

Tip for Educators: Pair episodes with PBS LearningMedia resources on genealogy and cultural heritage: https://www.pbslearningmedia.org

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

WHUT dedicates Sunday, Jan. 18 to celebrating Dr. King:

• Sunday Special – 11am — Finding Your Roots: Things We Don't Discus featuring Pamela Adlon and Kathryn Hahn

• King Celebration Concert – 6pm; Encore Mon, Jan. 19 at 9pm

  Featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir, joined by jazz vocalist Gregory Porter.

  “Legacy lives in music, memory, and movement.”
  

  Music, Culture & Discovery

• AfroPop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange – Fri, Jan. 9 at 9pm

• Stage – Sun, Jan. 11 at 9pm & 10pm

  Featuring Tall Paul and Dessa blending hip-hop, soul, and storytelling.

• Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution – Sun, Jan. 25 at 11am

  
  Nature & Science

• Nature: Tusker — Brotherhood of Elephants – Tue, Jan. 27 at 9pm Explore the hidden world of male elephants.

• New PBS Technology Series – Thurs, Jan. 29 at 11:30pm
  
  

  VOCES: American Sons

• Thurs, Jan. 29 at 9pm
Follow a group of Marines a decade after Afghanistan as they navigate trauma and loss.

Conclusion: Watch, Reflect, Engage

January at WHUT is a month of powerful storytelling — from dramas that grip to documentaries that enlighten. These programs aren’t just television; they’re conversations waiting to happen.

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