About The Bush Years: Family, Duty, Power

The Bush Years: Family, Duty, Power is a powerful six-part TV series that premiered in 2019. It reveals the epic history of the Bush family, capturing how they have shaped and influenced American politics over the last half century. From Senator Prescott Bush, to his son, President George H.W. Bush, to his sons; Governor Jeb Bush and President George W. Bush; highlighting their ascendancy to the pinnacles of power and the consequential moments of their careers. The show features archival footage, interviews and personal photos from the Bush family archives.

Making / Production

The documentary series is produced by CNN, with acclaimed politicians and journalists having directed each part. The series also included interviews and archival footage, providing an in-depth look into the making of one of America’s most powerful political families.

Actors

• Ed Harris as Narrator - His voice adds the perfect gravitas to the narration of the Bush family saga.
• George H. W. Bush plays Himself (archive footage) - The 41st President of the United States, his life and legacy are explored through family photos and public records.
• George W. Bush plays Himself (archive footage) - The 43rd President of the United States and son of George H.W., his tenure, controversies, and key moments are highlighted.
• Jeb Bush plays Himself (archive footage) - Former governor of Florida and son of George H.W., his political journey is discussed.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series features rare behind-the-scenes footage, giving viewers unprecedented access into the family’s personal life.
• All six episodes were directed by different renowned journalists and documentarians.
• It marks one of the few times where both mother and father to two governors and a president has ever been explored in such detail in documentary format.

Awards

While the series did not receive specific awards, the engrossing tale detailed has been praised by audiences and critics.

Quotes

• "Family means everything to us." - Bush Family
• "We are a nation of communities... a brilliant diversity spread like stars, like a thousand points of light in a broad and peaceful sky." - George H.W. Bush
• "Do not underestimate the power of my family, or America." - George W. Bush

Music, Soundtrack

• The tense, dramatic musical score for the series was composed by versatile musician Benny Mouthon, whose work added an extra dimension to the storytelling.