Quick Summary
British cinema's biopic Eddie the Eagle chronicles underdog ski jumper Eddie Edwards, who became a national sensation during the 1988 Winter Olympics, and was widely covered in the media. The production features Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman in leading roles.
About This Program ✦
"Eddie the Eagle" is a programme presented in the format of a movie. Classified as a biographical picture, it tells a true‑to‑life story and falls squarely within the movie genre. The title refers directly to its central figure, the British ski jumper Eddie Edwards, and the production is marketed as a cinematic account rather than a documentary or series. The core of the narrative follows Eddie Edwards, a British athlete who entered the world of ski jumping with modest expectations and limited resources. Despite being regarded as an underdog, his participation in the 1988 Winter Olympics captured the public’s imagination, turning him into a national sensation. The programme charts his unexpected rise to prominence during that Olympic season, highlighting the contrast between his humble background and the widespread attention he received. Beyond the central storyline, the film is positioned as a biopic that concentrates on the specific period of Edwards’ career surrounding the 1988 Games. By focusing on his Olympic involvement, the programme offers a concise portrait of a figure who, against the odds, achieved a level of fame that resonated across the United Kingdom. The production therefore serves as a cinematic record of that moment in sporting history, preserving the tale of a British underdog who briefly stepped into the global spotlight.
Eddie the Eagle broadcasts on BBC Two Northern Ireland HD at 6:20pm, Sunday, 1 February 2026. (Subtitles)


