Ancient Autopsy — Season 1
From Cleopatra to Genghis Khan, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb uses cutting-edge science and compelling detective work to reveal the truth behind the deaths of history's most famous figures.
About this season
From Cleopatra to Genghis Khan, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb uses cutting-edge science and compelling detective work to reveal the truth behind the deaths of history's most famous figures.
Episodes (4)
1. Cleopatra
Aired 22 September 2025 • 46 min
The pair begin by finding out if Egypt's last queen - Cleopatra - was truly killed by a snake. To get to the bottom of it, Suzannah confronts live Egyptian cobras, observes venom extraction, and explores academic theories of political murder. And with Dr Shepherd's forensic analysis and detailed examination of Roman records, they reconsider the truth behind one of ancient history's most famous deaths
2. Alexander the Great
Aired 29 September 2025 • 46 min
Professor Suzannah Lipscomb explores whether Alexander the Great died from poison, trauma or a deadly virus. She discovers surprising clues in a tiny Babylonian tablet and explores new virological theories with experts at the UK's Pandemic Institute. And through digital autopsy, Dr Richard Shepherd helps shed new light on the ancient world's most debated death
3. Genghis Khan
Aired 6 October 2025 • 46 min
Brand new series: Was Genghis Khan killed by an arrow? Or lightning? Maybe the plague? Suzannah Lipscomb investigates. Digital forensics indicate a death even stranger than legend.
4. Tutankhamun
Aired 13 October 2025 • 46 min
High-speed chariots, a digital autopsy and a rare diary unearth startling new clues behind the mysterious death of the ancient Egyptian boy-king Tutankhamun.