In Darcey’s Ballet Heroes, former Royal Ballet principal Darcey Bussell embarks on a personal journey to uncover the lives and legacies of the male dancers who shaped the world of ballet. From Nijinsky to Nureyev, Baryshnikov to Acosta, she explores how these extraordinary performers defied stereotypes, transformed expectations, and pushed the boundaries of physical expression. With exclusive interviews, rare archive footage, and intimate reflections, Darcey celebrates the power, athleticism, and artistry of ballet’s leading men, while examining how the role of the male dancer has evolved across generations and continues to inspire new audiences today.

BBC2 / 60 mins / Written and Directed by Mike Christie for Leopard TV / 2015