AbstractThe photoelectrocyclization of conjugated vinyl biaryls has proven to be a valuable and efficient strategy for generating phenanthrene derivatives. Contained in this review is an overview of the mechanism for the transformation and a discussion of the reaction scope with a focus on the electrocyclization itself, rearomatization, and the application of the reaction in natural product synthesis.1 Introduction2 The Synthesis of Conjugated Vinyl Biaryls3 Mechanistic Studies4 Substrate Scope5 Applications6 Conclusions