PBS fall schedule offers U.K. hits, US history

LOS ANGELES (AP) ? PBS' fall schedule has a definite British accent, courtesy of the returning drama "Upstairs Downstairs" and newcomer "Call the Midwife."

The prominence of dramas imported from the U.K. is no surprise, given PBS' success with "Downton Abbey," ''Sherlock" and season one of "Upstairs Downstairs."

But there's plenty of Americana planned for public television, including general election coverage and documentaries on the 1930s Dust Bowl and the Civil War.

Other upcoming PBS shows announced Tuesday include "Broadway or Bust," a documentary about top high school musical performers, and "American Masters" films on Carl Sandburg and David Geffen.

"Call the Midwife," a six-part drama about midwifery in 1950s London, opens PBS' fall schedule on Sept. 30. "Upstairs Downstairs" returns Oct. 7.

Associated Press

birmingham news lee evans lee evans 49ers 49ers vs giants joe paterno san francisco 49ers