Tony Blair's Legacy Explored in Channel 4 Documentary

The three-part documentary, *The Tony Blair Story*, aired on Channel 4 and provides an introspective look at the former British Prime Minister Tony Blair's time in office. Directed by Michael Waldman, the series features interviews and reflections from various political figures, offering insights into Blair's leadership style and decisions, particularly regarding the Iraq War.

The Guardian

Throughout the documentary, Blair's complex personality is examined, particularly his self-perception and the so-called "Jesus complex" attributed to him by critics. Jonathan Powell recalls a remark from Mo Mowlam, suggesting that Blair believed he could achieve anything, a sentiment echoed by Robert Harris, who noted that Blair "thought he could walk on water" after the Kosovo conflict. This motif of delusion is prevalent, as Blair himself acknowledges that he remains a politician at heart, despite no longer holding office.

The Guardian

The documentary also touches on Blair's relationships with key figures, including his wife Cherie Blair, who emerges as a significant influence in his political life. Cherie candidly discusses the political rivalry with Gordon Brown, indicating her role in shaping Blair's decisions regarding leadership succession.

The Guardian

A central focus of the documentary is Blair's controversial decision to support the United States in the Iraq War. Bill Clinton, reflecting on Blair's predicament, describes him as being "in a pickle," highlighting the divided loyalties Blair faced between the US and Europe. Blair defends his actions as pragmatic, arguing that as a smaller nation with a middle-sized economy, aligning with the US was a necessary choice. Critics, however, suggest that this decision exemplifies Blair's delusional overreach, a theme that resonates throughout the documentary.

The Guardian

The documentary does not shy away from criticism of Blair's legacy. Jeremy Corbyn's assessment of Blair as "a man in denial" serves as a stark reminder of the contentious views surrounding his leadership. Additionally, the documentary hints at the ongoing debate regarding Blair's financial interests post-premiership, with some commentators expressing disbelief that a former leader would seek lucrative opportunities.

The Guardian

In the documentary, Blair presents his current role as head of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, claiming he may wield more influence now than during his premiership. This assertion raises eyebrows, especially as he is set to participate in overseeing post-conflict Gaza alongside Jared Kushner, prompting questions about the appropriateness of his involvement in such sensitive matters.

The Guardian

• “You’re always a politician.” — Tony Blair

The Guardian

• “Tony succeeded because he thought he was fucking Jesus.” — Jonathan Powell

The Guardian

• “he was in a pickle” — Bill Clinton on Blair's Iraq decision

The Guardian

• “a man in denial” — Jeremy Corbyn on Blair

The Guardian

*The Tony Blair Story* serves as both a nostalgic look back at a transformative era in British politics and a critical examination of the decisions that defined Blair's legacy. While it offers insights into his personal and political complexities, it also reinforces the contentious nature of his time in office, particularly regarding the Iraq War.

The Guardian