Sir Tony Blair: Former Prime Minister Returns to Spotlight Amid New Documentary and Global Appointments
London, 18 February 2026 – Sir Tony Blair, the UK’s longest-serving Labour Prime Minister, has seen a significant return to the public eye this week following the release of a major television documentary and his appointment to several high-profile international advisory roles. While the former leader remains a central figure in global policy through the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), recent media coverage has reignited long-standing debates regarding his domestic legacy and the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
Documentary Release: ‘The Tony Blair Story’
A new three-part documentary series, The Tony Blair Story, premiered on Channel 4 on 17 February 2026. Directed by Michael Waldman, the series features candid interviews with Blair, his wife Cherie, and former political colleagues including Jeremy Corbyn. Critical reception has been mixed; while some reviewers praised the series as a “gripping” and “astute” examination of his rise to power, others criticised the former Prime Minister for a perceived lack of introspection regarding the Iraq War. Reports from the production suggest Blair remains “still convinced” that the decision to invade Iraq was correct, despite the ongoing controversy that has defined his post-office reputation.
New International Roles and Policy Influence
Beyond the television screen, Sir Tony continues to expand his influence in international media and diplomacy. He has recently been appointed as a senior advisor to the Antenna Group, Greece’s largest media organisation. In this capacity, he is expected to support the Europe-Gulf Forum scheduled for May 2026. Furthermore, documents have emerged indicating that Blair has been lobbying the European Commission to engage with a “Board of Peace” summit focused on Gaza, an initiative positioned by the White House as a significant diplomatic forum.
Energy Strategy and Domestic Criticism
The Tony Blair Institute (TBI) recently published a report titled “Why Britain Needs an Energy-Strategy Reset,” which has drawn criticism from environmental groups. The report suggests the UK government should shift its focus from “clean-power goals” to “cheaper power” through market reform. Critics have labelled the former Prime Minister a “fossil” for his stance, arguing that his recommendations undermine current climate targets in favour of traditional energy security.
Key Facts: Sir Tony Blair
The following table outlines the career milestones and personal details of the former Prime Minister based on established records.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | The Rt Hon Sir Tony Blair KG |
| Date of Birth | 6 May 1953 |
| Place of Birth | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Prime Ministerial Term | 1997–2007 |
| Political Party | Labour |
| Constituency | Sedgefield (1983–2007) |
| Key Achievements | Northern Ireland Peace Process, Public Sector Reform |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was Tony Blair Prime Minister?
Sir Tony Blair served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for ten years, from 1997 to 2007. He is the only Labour leader to have won three consecutive general elections.
What is the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change?
The Tony Blair Institute (TBI) is a non-profit organisation that provides policy recommendations and strategy advice to governments worldwide. Its recent work has focused on technology, energy reform, and Middle Eastern diplomacy.
What is the focus of the new Channel 4 documentary?
The Tony Blair Story examines Blair’s political career, his domestic legacy in the UK, and the controversial decision to join the US-led invasion of Iraq. It features modern-day interviews with Blair and his inner circle.