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How to Watch ‘Genius: MLK/X’ Premiere Live Online for Free Without Cable

Ready for a peek inside the personal lives of two of the most influential men in American history? That’s what you’ll get in the two-episode premiere on Thursday, Feb. 1 of the Emmy Award-winning anthology series, “Genius: MLK/X.” Experience the formative years and key personal relationships of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre) as they develop their dueling philosophies towards the same end: racial equality. The eight-part series will also explore each man’s relationship with his wife, Coretta Scott King (Weruche Opia), and Betty Shabazz (Jayme Lawson), who proves to be as important to the Civil Rights Movement as the men they stand beside. “Genius: MLK/X” premieres Feb. 1 on National Geographic and streams Feb. 2 on Disney+ and Hulu. You can watch Genius: MLK/X with a 5-Day Free Trial of DIRECTV STREAM. You can also watch with Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, Fubo, or YouTube TV.

How to Watch ‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere

About ‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere

National Geographic is set to premiere its latest installment in the Emmy Award-winning anthology series, “Genius: MLK/X.” Launching on Feb. 1, the eight-episode series promises a deep dive into the complex narratives of two of history’s most iconic figures: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

With Kelvin Harrison Jr. stepping into the shoes of Dr. King and Aaron Pierre embodying Malcolm X, the series will offer an exploration of their contrasting approaches to civil rights. But the series doesn’t just focus on these two men - it also shines a spotlight on their powerful partners, with Weruche Opia portraying Coretta Scott King and Jayme Lawson as Betty Shabazz. The series also marks one of the final roles of Emmy-winning actor Ron Cephas Jones.

Set to air weekly with two episodes starting Thursday, Feb. 1 on National Geographic and streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu, “Genius: MLK/X” distinguishes itself by weaving the parallel yet intersecting journeys of these two men. While Dr. King championed racial equality through nonviolent activism, Malcolm X’s approach centered on Black empowerment and self-determination.

This dual narrative, a feature of the “Genius” series, offers viewers a nuanced view of their divergent paths toward a common goal. The pilot episode, “Graduation,” will also be simulcast on ABC. Produced by Ron Howard, this series is not just a retelling of history; it’s an immersive experience into the lives and legacies of two men who shaped the course of American history.

Can you watch ‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere for free?

DIRECTV STREAM offers a 5-Day Free Trial. With your free trial, you can watch Genius: MLK/X on DIRECTV STREAM.

You can watch ‘Genius: MLK/X’ Premiere with a free trial of Fubo or Hulu Live TV.

What is the ‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere episode schedule?

DIRECTV STREAM will be airing ‘Genius: MLK/X’ Premiere on Thursday, February 1, 2024 and will continue with a weekly episode release until Thursday, February 22, 2024.

  • Episode 1: Thursday, February 1, 2024
  • Episode 2: Thursday, February 1, 2024
  • Episode 3: Thursday, February 8, 2024
  • Episode 4: Thursday, February 8, 2024
  • Episode 5: Thursday, February 15, 2024
  • Episode 6: Thursday, February 15, 2024
  • Episode 7: Thursday, February 22, 2024
  • Episode 8: Thursday, February 22, 2024

What devices can you use to stream ‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere?

You can watch Genius: MLK/X on DIRECTV STREAM using Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TV, iPhone/iPad, Android Phone/Tablet, Mac, Windows, LG Smart TV, Samsung Smart TV, Sony Smart TV, and VIZIO Smart TV.

‘Genius: MLK/X' Premiere Trailer

  • Genius: MLK/X

    February 1, 2024

    MLK/X follows Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X from their formative years to their rich, parallel stories as they shape their identities and become the change they wish to see in the world; the two visionaries ultimately rise to pioneer a movement.


Thomas writes about sports and entertainment for The Streamable. He studied film at USC's prestigious School of Cinematic Arts and is still waiting for Connor McDavid to win a Stanley Cup.

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