This programme, narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, is the definitive account of one of the last truly great explorers and adventurers, Sir Edmund Hillary.

He and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became global heroes when they became the first climbers to conquer Mount Everest - a feat which has made them enduringly popular to generation and generation.

With exclusive access to Hillary's letters and photos, this programme allows you to share his deeply personal feelings about the triumphs and tragedies in his life, including the deaths of his wife and daughter.

Hillary talks candidly about the forces that shaped him, the great events that made him famous. The programme includes archive footage of Hillary's descent, and awesome film of Everest.