Spy missions have been an integral part of Global history. Though movies and television have offered many fictitious accounts of espionage, both fanciful and based on actual events, very little is known about the spies who have risked their lives for the freedoms we enjoy. The Smithsonian Channel will shed some light on these covert operatives with a new 8 episode docu-series. The Smithsonian Channel’s “Spy Wars” takes viewers on a wild ride into some of the world’s most exciting missions.
Hosted by actor Damian Lewis, the series focuses on the most important spy missions of the last forty years. Each episode features a real-life tale of espionage and its lasting effects on the way we live. Viewers can expect to hear from the experts and eyewitnesses who have first-hand knowledge of the events. Through their recollections, viewers enter the secretive world of conspiracies, government intelligence, and surveillance. The premiere episode entitled “The Man Who Saved the World” reveals the unique story of Oleg Gordievsky a KGB agent whose double cross prevented a nuclear war between the Soviet Union and the West. Oleg’s story is one of incredible bravery, secret codes and dangerous liaisons as well as tremendous sacrifice. His actions saved the world but caused his wife to be detained and interrogated for six long years. He was also convicted of treason and sentenced to death for betraying his government. Politics prevented his execution but did nothing to save his marriage. Though his days of espionage are far behind him Gordievsky remains a prolific figure in espionage whose various books are often quoted. Through the series, his and other stories will be introduced to and revisited by history buffs all over the globe.
In celebration of the Spy Wars premiere, media, influencers, and industry insiders were invited to Spyscape, for a chance to release their inner spy through a series of interactive games and activities. Spyscape is an interactive museum of espionage and covert operations. Through games and quizzes, would-be spies learn about historical spy missions and discover their hidden talents. Each guest is provided a unique wristband that is preprogrammed with a special chip used to interact with each exhibit or game. Interspersed between each game setup, is historical memorabilia featuring videos and placards detailing real accounts of international espionage. With every swipe of the wristband, guests are building a unique profile and learning a great deal about their personality and best attributes. Near each game is also an interactive kiosk where participants play brain games and answer personality questions. Before leaving everyone is given their final scores and a spy role based on their unique personality. Spyscape’s innovative concept is both entertaining and educational. Through gameplay, we learned a great deal about, creating codes, reading body language and the power of surveillance. Though we aren’t prepared to join the CIA just yet we certainly had a blast in Spyscapes, a crash course in espionage. To learn more about Spyscapes visit SPYSCAPE.COM.
Spy Wars Premieres on March 22nd on the Smithsonian channel, check your local listings for the channel and time.