Henry David Thoreau

★ 1.0•2026•1 Seasons•ANIME

Documentary

Henry David Thoreau helped define modern environmentalism and nonviolent resistance, yet his life has been obscured by myth. The author of Walden and Civil Disobedience, he was brilliant but flawed, idealistic but opinionated. A writer, scientist and activist, his words resonate urgently with today’s challenges as humanity looks for ways to live in harmony with nature—and each other.

Top Cast

George Clooney

Self – Narrator (voice)

Jeff Goldblum

Henry David Thoreau (voice)

Ted Danson

Ralph Waldo Emerson (voice)

Meryl Streep

Various Characters (voice)

Episodes

Season:

1. Who Are We?

54m

Henry David Thoreau’s early life unfolds as a changing nation struggles to live up to its ideals, while industry threatens the landscape. After attending Harvard College, he was inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson to become a writer. Then, a family tragedy deepens his bond with nature, and, disillusioned with society, he builds a cabin in the woods to live simply, deliberately, quietly — and write.

Aired: 3/30/2026

2. Being Alive

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Living at his cabin at Walden Pond, Thoreau finds solace in "wild" nature and pours himself into his journal, laying the groundwork for one of two books he writes there. His two-year stay includes regular trips to town, a transformative journey to Maine, and a night in jail in protest of a government that permits slavery — experiences that redefine his understanding of freedom.

Henry David Thoreau

Top Cast

George Clooney

Jeff Goldblum

Ted Danson

Meryl Streep

Episodes

1. Who Are We?

2. Being Alive

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3. Several More Lives to Live