American Masters
Discover insightful profiles of important figures in America's artistic and cultural life.
Roberta Flack
S37 Ep1 | 1h 23m 33s
Discover music icon Roberta Flack’s rise to stardom and triumphs over racism and sexism.
Dr. Tony Fauci
S37 Ep2 | 1h 53m 11s
Join Dr. Anthony Fauci as he reflects on his life and career as a public health advocate.
In The Making
S37 Ep3 | 1h 51m 39s
Follow two performers as they break down barriers in opera and country music.
Nam June Paik: Moon Is the Oldest TV
S37 Ep4 | 1h 45m 1s
See the world through the eyes of Nam June Paik, the father of video art.
Little Richard: King and Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll
S37 Ep5 | 1h 29m 31s
Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard.
Jerry Brown: The Disrupter
S37 Ep6 | 1h 33m 44s
Experience the political and personal journey of California governor Jerry Brown.
Floyd Abrams: Speaking Freely
S37 Ep7 | 1h 22m 45s
Follow the 50-year career of First Amendment lawyer and legal expert Floyd Abrams.
A Song for Cesar
S37 Ep8 | 1h 22m 12s
Trace the life and legacy of labor activist Cesar Chavez through music and the arts.
Marian Anderson: The Whole World in Her Hands
S36 Ep2 | 1h 53m 1s
Explore the life of the famous singer who became an icon for the civil rights movement.
Waterman – Duke: Ambassador of Aloha
S36 Ep3 | 1h 23m 57s
Jason Momoa narrates the story of five-time Olympic medalist and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road
S36 Ep5 | 1h 23m 22s
Explore the life of the legendary singer, songwriter and co-founder of The Beach Boys.
Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On
S36 Ep6 | 1h 29m 33s
See the story of the Indigenous singer-songwriter, social activist, educator and artist.
The Adventures of Saul Bellow
S36 Ep7 | 1h 22m 55s
Explore Nobel Prize winner Saul Bellow's impact on American literature.
Groucho & Cavett
S36 Ep8 | 1h 21m 59s
Discover the enduring friendship between legendary comedians Dick Cavett and Groucho Marx.
How It Feels To Be Free
S35 Ep1 | 1h 53m 19s
The inspiring story of six trailblazing Black women entertainers.
Flannery
S35 Ep2 | 1h 23m 23s
Explore the world of a literary icon whose fiction was unlike anything published before.
Twyla Moves
S35 Ep3 | 1h 22m 31s
Explore choreographer Twyla Tharp’s career and famously rigorous creative process.
Never Too Late: The Doc Severinsen Story
S35 Ep4 | 1h 23m 55s
Trace the life and groundbreaking career of the unstoppable musical icon.
Oliver Sacks: His Own Life
S35 Ep5 | 1h 49m 28s
Explore the life and work of the legendary neurologist and storyteller.
Oliver Sacks: His Own Life (Audio Descriptive Version)
S35 Ep6 | 1h 49m 28s
Explore the life and work of the legendary neurologist and storyteller.
Ballerina Boys
S35 Ep8 | 53m 26s
Discover The Trocks. Dancing on pointe shoes, these male ballerinas mix artistry and joy.
Buddy Guy: The Blues Chase The Blues Away
S35 Ep9 | 1h 22m 31s
Dive into the career of the legendary blues guitarist.
Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It
S35 Ep10 | 1h 28m 42s
Explore the life and 70-year career of the iconic Latina actor, performer and activist.
Becoming Helen Keller
S35 Ep11 | 1h 22m 50s
Revisit the remarkable career and life of an icon who became a human rights pioneer.
Mae West: Dirty Blonde
S34 Ep2 | 1h 23m 32s
Dive into the life and career of groundbreaking entertainer Mae West.
Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am
S34 Ep3 | 1h 56m 14s
An artful and intimate meditation on the legendary storyteller.
Walter Winchell: The Power of Gossip
S34 Ep5 | 53m 57s
Meet the columnist who pioneered the fast-paced journalism that dominates today.
Michael Tilson Thomas: Where Now Is
S34 Ep6 | 1h 23m 37s
Discover the Grammy-winning conductor, pianist and composer.
Laura Ingalls Wilder: Prairie to Page
S34 Ep7 | 1h 23m 2s
An unvarnished look at the unlikely “Little House” series author.
Keith Haring: Street Art Boy
S34 Ep8 | 52m 28s
Explore the life of artist Keith Haring who revolutionized pop culture and fine art.
Terrence McNally: Every Act of Life
S33 Ep8 | 1h 22m 18s
Explore four-time Tony-winning playwright Terrence McNally's work in theater.
Rothko: Pictures Must Be Miraculous
S33 Ep11 | 53m 11s
Discover the art world giant whose color fields changed art history and now fetch millions
Basquiat: Rage to Riches
S32 Ep8 | 1h 24m 16s
He lived fast, died young and created thousands of drawings and paintings.
James Beard: America's First Foodie
S31 Ep4 | 53m 11s
Today’s American food movement can be traced back to one man: James Beard.
Tyrus
S31 Ep7 | 1h 23m 11s
Tyrus Wong's pioneering artwork led to iconic works like Bambi and Rebel Without a Cause.
Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl
S30 Ep5 | 1h 53m 14s
"The Queen of Country Music” is still going strong after more than 50 years of music.
Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You
S30 Ep8 | 1h 24m 3s
The first documentary about the legend behind much of the bold television of the '70s.
LENNONYC
S24 Ep7 | 1h 52m 57s
Watch the full documentary on Lennon's life in New York City during the 1970s.
Alice Waters and Her Delicious Revolution
S17 Ep4 | 53m 30s
Alice Waters has made it her mission in life to make sure that people eat beautifully.
James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket
S4 Ep4 | 1h 25m 19s
Explores the life, works and beliefs of the late writer and civil rights activist.
Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osorio: This Is the Way We Rise
12m 16s
Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osorio is a Kanaka Maoli wahine poet, activist, and academic.
Maia Cruz Palileo: Becoming the Moon
11m 54s
Maia Cruz Palileo is a multi-disciplinary artist who explores themes of migration.
Lily Gladstone: Far Out There
13m 51s
Native American actress Lily Gladstone reflects on her origins and acting in Hollywood.
Alejandro Jimenez: The Ground I Stand On
12m
A lyrical exploration of the life and work of Mexican-American poet Alejandro Jimenez.
Keeping Video Art Alive With C.T. Lui
8m 24s
Engineer Chi-Tien Lui has restored most of Nam June Paik's video art over the years.
Treat Williams on the acting process with Sidney Lumet
6m 24s
Actor Treat Williams describes working with director Sidney Lumet on “Prince of the City.”
Lady Bunny on the echoes of Mae West in drag culture
12m 19s
Drag performer and artist Lady Bunny talks about Mae West's influence.
James Earl Jones on Sidney Poitier and acting
16m 12s
James Earl Jones talks Sidney Poitier's impact on himself and other young Black actors.
Fran Drescher on being a showrunner for the American sitcom
21m 12s
Fran Drescher talks about how she took inspiration from Lucille Ball for "The Nanny."
André Leon Talley on Mae West’s impact on fashion and style
15m 24s
André Leon Talley recounts how Mae West used fashion and her sexuality to empower herself.
Protactile: A Language of Touch
17m 42s
DeafBlind people are creating a new language called Protactile, based solely on touch.
Protactile: A Language of Touch [Audio Description + ASL]
17m 42s
DeafBlind people are creating a new language called Protactile, based solely on touch.
Protactile: A Language of Touch [Extended Audio Description]
21m 23s
DeafBlind people are creating a new language called Protactile, based solely on touch.
Filmmaker Jonas Mekas on living in Andy Warhol's New York
22m 21s
Filmmaker Jonas Mekas describes the burgeoning art scene of New York City in the 1960s.
Steve Martin on how David Geffen thrived through friendships
14m 41s
Steve Martin discusses how David Geffen found Hollywood success through his friendships.
John Singleton on having Maya Angelou as a mentor
13m 33s
John Singleton came to Maya Angelou for guidance while working on "Poetic Justice."
Roberta Flack
S37 Ep1 | 36s
Discover music icon Roberta Flack’s rise to stardom and triumphs over racism and sexism.
Clint Eastwood loved "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"
S37 Ep1 | 2m 42s
Clint Eastwood loved Roberta Flack's song "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face."
How Roberta Flack created soul with "getting-togetherness"
S37 Ep1 | 2m 43s
Roberta Flack performed with all of that soulful "getting-toggetherness."
The origin of Flack's hit "Killing Me Softly With His Song"
S37 Ep1 | 2m 27s
How Roberta Flack made "Killing Me Softly With His Song" her own.
Roberta Flack was a child piano prodigy
S37 Ep1 | 2m 9s
Growing up, Roberta Flack was known as a piano prodigy who "could play anything."
Dr. Tony Fauci
S37 Ep2 | 2m 18s
Join Dr. Anthony Fauci as he reflects on his life and career as a public health advocate.
How Dr. Fauci handled the AIDS crisis
S37 Ep2 | 4m 34s
Dr. Fauci's relationship with AIDS activists changed throughout the years.
Dr. Fauci visits D.C. to battle vaccine hesistancy
S37 Ep2 | 7m 2s
Dr. Fauci and the mayor of D.C. encourage residents to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
In The Making
S37 Ep3 | 3m 53s
Follow two performers as they break down barriers in opera and country music.
Nam June Paik: Moon Is the Oldest TV
S37 Ep4 | 2m 32s
See the world through the eyes of Nam June Paik, the father of video art.
Nam June Paik's communication problem
S37 Ep4 | 45s
Nam June Paik describes how everyday is a communication problem for him.
Nam June Paik's early art
S37 Ep4 | 42s
In Zen for Head (1962), Nam June Paik used his body as an instrument in the performance.
Little Richard: King and Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll
S37 Ep5 | 28s
Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard.
The king and queen of rock 'n' roll—and Sunset Boulevard
S37 Ep5 | 1m 33s
By 1985, Little Richard had abandoned rock 'n' roll and was living in a hotel in L.A.
Little Richard preaches the gospel
S37 Ep5 | 2m
Little Richard had a fervid relationship with religion.
The origins of "Tutti Frutti"
S37 Ep5 | 1m 41s
Little Richard first originated the famous refrain in "Tutti Frutti" at the Dew Drop Inn.
Big Freedia on Little Richard, music and the queer community
S37 Ep5 | 13m 48s
Artist Big Freedia reflects on the similarities between herself and Little Richard.
Jerry Brown: The Disrupter
S37 Ep6 | 2m 8s
Experience the political and personal journey of California governor Jerry Brown.
The moment Jerry Brown found politics
S37 Ep6 | 1m 15s
While at the Governor's Mansion, Jerry Brown overheard his father talking politics.
Jerry Brown's second shot at governor
S37 Ep6 | 2m 12s
Jerry Brown runs for governor a second time and becomes the oldest sitting governor in CA.
How Watergate changed the political landscape
S37 Ep6 | 1m 4s
Journalist Todd Purdum floated the idea of Jerry Brown running for governor.
How Bella Abzug elevated feminist causes while in office
S37 Ep6 | 2m 15s
While in Congress, Bella Abzug elevated feminist causes.
Bella Abzug defines what's missing in our democracy
S37 Ep6 | 1m
Bella Abzug went on the "Dinah!" show and questioned what was missing in our democracy.
Bella! This Woman’s Place is in the House
S37 Ep6 | 2m 45s
Follow the meteoric rise of firebrand politician and activist Bella Abzug.
The history of the First Amendment
S37 Ep7 | 2m 49s
"We were making up, in a sense, First Amendment law as we went along," said Floyd Abrams.
Floyd Abrams: Speaking Freely
S37 Ep7 | 2m 21s
Follow the 50-year career of preeminent First Amendment attorney Floyd Abrams.
Dan Abrams on defending his father's work on Citizens United
S37 Ep7 | 3m 41s
Dan Abrams discusses how he admires his father for working on cases he may not agree with.
When The New York Times published the Pentagon Papers
S37 Ep8 | 2m 23s
The New York Times sought the legal counsel after publishing the Pentagon Papers.
The case that protected corporate spending in elections
S37 Ep8 | 2m 27s
Learn how the First Amendment protects independent spending by corporations in elections.
Cesar Chavez's love of jazz and pachuco culture
S37 Ep8 | 3m 28s
Civil rights activist Cesar Chavez expressed an interest in music from an early age.
The music of America’s farmworkers
S37 Ep8 | 3m 11s
Daniel Valdez created a bolero song from the poem "Brown-Eyed Children of the Sun."
Peaceful protest with Joan Baez
S37 Ep8 | 2m 32s
Singer Joan Baez was one of the peaceful protesters of the farmworkers’ movement.
How the farmworkers’ movement used concerts to fundraise
S37 Ep8 | 3m 41s
Jim Cassell organized concerts as fundraisers for the farmworkers’ movement.
A Song for Cesar
S37 Ep9 | 1m 53s
See how Cesar Chavez and the farmworkers’ movement were influenced by music and the arts.
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
S37 Ep9 | 1m 7s
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.
Documenting the legacy of drummer Max Roach
S37 Ep9 | 2m 29s
Director Sam Pollard was captivated by the life story of drummer and activist Max Roach.
How Max Roach created the experimental sound of M'Boom
S37 Ep9 | 2m 13s
Max Roach founded M'Boom, a jazz group made up of experimental percussionists.
How Max Roach fused jazz and hip hop
S37 Ep9 | 2m 48s
Max Roach was excited by the premise and promise of rap when it first hit the music scene.
José Clemente Orozco: Hombre de Fuego (En Español)
S37 Ep10 | 40s
El artista José Clemente Orozco (1883-1945) encabezó el movimiento muralista en México.
La chispa que encendió el interés de Orozco por hacer arte
S37 Ep10 | 1m 25s
Orozco quedó cautivado por el trabajo del artista mexicano José Guadalupe Posada.
La historia de “Hidalgo y la Independencia Nacional”
S37 Ep10 | 1m 50s
Orozco pintó uno de los murales públicos más icónicos de México.
Las pinturas de Orozco fueron destruidas en los EE. UU.
S37 Ep10 | 1m 19s
Las pinturas de Orozco fueron destruidas por agentes de aduana en los EE. UU.
Rennie Harris on the power of the choreographer
S36 Ep1 | 57s
Rennie Harris describes how choreographers are responsible for their dancers.
Alvin Ailey on Chauncey Green, the friend who saved his life
S36 Ep1 | 2m 56s
Ailey describes his "blood memories" and an impactful friendship.
Ailey's "Revelations" draws on African American spirituals
S36 Ep1 | 2m 24s
Ailey's "Revelations" performance depicted the "Black experience."
Choreographer Rennie Harris on channeling Ailey
S36 Ep1 | 1m 51s
Rennie Harris choreographed a piece about Ailey for the 60th anniversary of the company.
Bill T. Jones remembers the first time he met Alvin Ailey
S36 Ep1 | 2m 11s
"I was lonely for colleagues who were people of color," said Jones upon meeting Ailey.
Ailey dancers reflect on company's scrappy beginnings
S36 Ep1 | 1m 51s
Former Ailey dancers recall how Alvin Ailey worked hard to raise money for the company.
How racism affected Marian Anderson's vocal classification
S36 Ep2 | 1m 24s
Though Marian Anderson could sing both high and low notes, she was billed as a contralto.
Marian Anderson's singing recalls America's racial unrest
S36 Ep2 | 3m 14s
"Crucifixion" recalled the racial unrest Marian Anderson saw during her time in Chicago.
Marian Anderson's love of fashion and shoes
S36 Ep2 | 1m 37s
Marian Anderson had a vast collection of couture clothing.
Marian Anderson: The Whole World in Her Hands
S36 Ep2 | 1m 4s
Explore the life of the famous singer who became an icon for the civil rights movement.
Marian Anderson overcame discrimination with Danbury farm
S36 Ep2 | 1m 34s
Anderson bought her beloved farm in Danbury, CT, with her husband, Orpheus Fisher.
Denyce Graves and others discuss Marian Anderson's legacy
S36 Ep2 | 1h 2m 5s
Celebrate Marian Anderson in this event with Denyce Graves, George Shirley and others.
Waterman – Duke: Ambassador of Aloha
S36 Ep3 | 1m 56s
Jason Momoa narrates the story of five-time Olympic medalist and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
How Duke broke the swimming world record in Hawaii
S36 Ep3 | 2m 40s
Duke Kahanamoku shattered the Amateur Athletic Union's swim record in 1911.
Duke's incredible rescue mission while on a surfboard
S36 Ep3 | 2m 41s
Duke Kahanamoku rescued eight men from the capsized Thelma in California.
Overcoming the distinct challenge of indoor swimming
S36 Ep3 | 2m 27s
Duke found his mind and body shocked by his first time swimming in an indoor pool.
The meaning of Aloha
S36 Ep3 | 2m 10s
Paul Strauch recounts a conversation he had with Duke about the power of the word "Aloha."
Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road
S36 Ep5 | 2m 4s
Explore the life and career of the legendary singer and co-founder of The Beach Boys.
Watch Brian Wilson produce a song
S36 Ep5 | 4m 24s
See musical genius Brian Wilson at work producing his song, "Honeycomb."
Rare studio footage of the Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations"
S36 Ep5 | 1m 14s
Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys work on "Good Vibrations" in the studio in 1966.
Brian Wilson visits his high school
S36 Ep5 | 2m 41s
Brian Wilson makes a stop at his high school alma mater.
When journalist Jason Fine first met Brian Wilson
S36 Ep5 | 1m 21s
Jason Fine describes how his friendship with Brian Wilson first started.
Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On
S36 Ep6 | 3m 10s
See the story of the Indigenous singer-songwriter, social activist, educator and artist.
How Buffy Sainte-Marie won an Oscar for "Up Where We Belong"
S36 Ep6 | 1m 39s
Buffy Sainte-Marie won an Oscar for her song "Up Where We Belong."
The origins of Buffy Sainte-Marie's "Universal Soldier"
S36 Ep6 | 2m 10s
"Who's responsible for war?" wonders Buffy Sainte-Marie in "Universal Soldier."
Buffy Sainte-Marie brought Indigenous representation to TV
S36 Ep6 | 1m 56s
Sainte-Marie insisted that Indigenous people play the Indigenous roles on "The Virginian."
When Buffy Sainte-Marie wrote the "first feminist anthem"
S36 Ep6 | 2m 18s
"I always wanna be offering people stuff that they won't get somewhere else," says Buffy.
The Adventures of Saul Bellow
S36 Ep7 | 1m 33s
Explore Nobel Prize winner Saul Bellow's impact on American literature.
Ernest Hemingway versus Saul Bellow
S36 Ep7 | 59s
Philip Roth talk about the opposing styles of Ernest Hemingway and Saul Bellow.
A classic Saul Bellow rant about Chicago
S36 Ep7 | 1m 41s
Chicago in the 1980s is the backdrop for Bellow's novel "The Dean's December."
Salman Rushdie on Saul Bellow's books
S36 Ep7 | 3m 58s
Salman Rushdie talks about some of his favorite Saul Bellow books in this outtake.
Philip Roth talks Saul Bellow in his final interview
S36 Ep7 | 8m 38s
Philip Roth describes his admiration for Saul Bellow in Roth's final interview.
Groucho & Cavett
S36 Ep8 | 1m 46s
Discover the enduring friendship between legendary comedians Dick Cavett and Groucho Marx.
When Groucho Marx hosted "The Tonight Show"
S36 Ep8 | 2m 9s
Groucho Marx was a guest host on "The Tonight Show."
Groucho Marx roasts Dick Cavett
S36 Ep8 | 2m 1s
One of Groucho's best nights on "The Dick Cavett Show."
What made Groucho Marx a great writer
S36 Ep8 | 3m 7s
Groucho Marx was a prolific writer with "a genuine intellect."
Dick Cavett's early days of standup comedy
S36 Ep8 | 8m 17s
Dick Cavett reflects on his early days of standup and the lessons he learned.
How It Feels To Be Free documentary
S35 Ep1 | 30s
How six iconic African American female entertainers challenged the entertainment industry.
Alicia Keys doesn’t mind being compared to Lena Horne
S35 Ep1 | 2m 1s
The musician talks about why she admires Horne so much.
Diahann Carroll talks race and makeup while filming "Julia"
S35 Ep1 | 1m 50s
Carroll tells the story of an early makeup session for the TV show “Julia.”
The role of women entertainers in the civil rights movement
S35 Ep1 | 1m 8s
Historian Ruth Feldstein on the role of women entertainers in the civil rights movement.
Lena Waithe on why Cicely Tyson's hair was revolutionary
S35 Ep1 | 1m 58s
Waithe describes how Tyson's natural hair was an inspiration to many others.
Halle Berry on how seeing Diahann Caroll on TV changed her
S35 Ep1 | 1m 57s
Having a role model on TV who looked like her made a big difference for Halle Berry.
Lena Waithe on mixed feelings towards Blaxploitation
S35 Ep1 | 1m 59s
Producer, actor and writer Lena Waithe on the mixed feelings Blaxploitation evokes.
Why Cicely Tyson was selective about her acting roles
S35 Ep1 | 43s
Tyson was mindful of how she performed Black womanhood.
Flannery
S35 Ep2 | 1m 54s
Explore the life of Flannery O’Connor whose fiction was unlike anything published before.
Why did Flannery O'Connor detest "Gone with the Wind"?
S35 Ep2 | 2m 41s
She reportedly “couldn’t stand” the romanticized, Hollywood version of the old South.
From the Director: The Making of Flannery
S35 Ep2 | 2m 18s
Hear from director Elizabeth Coffman about the making of American Masters: Flannery.
Twyla Moves
S35 Ep3 | 2m 36s
Explore the life of legendary dancer, director and choreographer Twyla Tharp.
How does Twyla Tharp create new dances?
S35 Ep3 | 1m 1s
Twyla Tharp's creative process is very physical.
The time Twyla Tharp setup a performance in Central Park
S35 Ep3 | 1m 48s
Archival footage shows one of Twyla Tharp's dances in Central Park amongst the public.
The time Twyla Tharp pushed David Byrne to his limits
S35 Ep3 | 2m 58s
In 1981, Twyla Tharp commissioned David Byrne of the Talking Heads to write music for her.
Tharp and Baryshnikov's "totally unexpected" collaboration
S35 Ep3 | 4m 32s
The collaboration was "lightening in a bottle," according to Tharp.
Twyla Tharp's very valuable college decision
S35 Ep3 | 1m 17s
How Tharp directed her own education at Barnard College.
What's it like choreographing a dance for Zoom?
S35 Ep3 | 2m 3s
Tharp discovers a technical challenge that makes choreographing virtually even harder.
Twyla Tharp: Inside Look
S35 Ep3 | 2m
Twyla Tharp provide an inside look at the way she approaches her work.
Twyla Tharp's Famous 'Eight Jelly Roll' Dance
S35 Ep3 | 55s
'Eight Jelly Rolls' was one of Twyla Tharp's first music-inspired choreographed dances.
Never Too Late: The Doc Severinsen Story
S35 Ep4 | 1m 48s
Trace the life and career of master trumpeter and musical icon Doc Severinsen.
Doc Severinsen's advice for music students
S35 Ep4 | 2m 58s
Doc Severinsen gives the best piece of advice to one of his music students.
Doc Severinsen's fitness routine
S35 Ep4 | 2m 14s
Doc Severinsen goes tot he gym everyday. He also swears by a special preworkout meal.
The best of Doc Severinsen's eccentric outfits
S35 Ep4 | 2m 37s
Former Tonight Show bandleader Doc Severinsen was famous for his over the top outfits.
Oliver Sacks: His Own Life
S35 Ep5 | 2m 2s
Explore the life and work of the legendary neurologist and storyteller Oliver Sacks.
What made physician Oliver Sacks unique?
S35 Ep5 | 1m 26s
He used storytelling to connect people with great challenges "back into the world."
What pushed Oliver Sacks’ brother towards psychosis?
S35 Ep5 | 1m 10s
Sacks wondered if he might be next.
Why did Oliver Sacks love the periodic table so much?
S35 Ep5 | 1m 14s
He even incorporated it into his wardrobe.
Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir
S35 Ep7 | 2m 14s
Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir is an intimate portrait of the groundbreaking writer.
Amy Tan’s first job was writing astrology
S35 Ep7 | 2m 12s
Amy started out “making up” astrology for her friend’s business.
How Amy Tan met her husband Lou
S35 Ep7 | 1m 14s
According to Amy Tan's husband Lou, it was "cluelessness at first sight."
The author of “Crazy Rich Asians” describes Amy Tan’s impact
S35 Ep7 | 2m 33s
Kevin Kwan talks about how Amy Tan had an early impact on him.
What was the Joy Luck Club?
S35 Ep7 | 1m 34s
The title of Amy Tan's famous novel was also the name of an investment club.
Ballerina Boys
S35 Ep8 | 2m 36s
Discover The Trocks. Dancing on pointe shoes, these male ballerinas mix artistry and joy.
Watch these drag ballerinas get ready for a show
S35 Ep8 | 2m 14s
Putting on makeup is about empowerment as much as it is about humor.
What goes through a drag ballerina's mind while dancing?
S35 Ep8 | 1m 32s
A "Trocks" dancer describes what goes through his mind while dancing.
Buddy Guy: The Blues Chase The Blues Away
S35 Ep9 | 1m 58s
Dive into the career of the legendary blues guitarist.
How blues legend Buddy Guy got his hands on his first guitar
S35 Ep9 | 3m 38s
Hear Buddy Guy play the song by John Lee Hooker that made him want to learn guitar
The two people Buddy Guy admires most as a musician
S35 Ep9 | 1m 41s
Buddy Guy met John Lee Hooker and Big Mama Thornton after years of admiring their music.
Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It
S35 Ep10 | 2m 2s
Explore the life and 70-year career of the iconic Latina actor, performer and activist.
Lin-Manuel Miranda on his first viewing of "West Side Story"
S35 Ep10 | 1m
Lin-Manuel Miranda on his first viewing of "West Side Story"
Becoming Helen Keller
S35 Ep11 | 1m 4s
Revisit the remarkable career and life of an icon who became a human rights pioneer.
Helen Keller the suffragist
S35 Ep11 | 59s
Helen Keller was an activist who supported the labor movement and women's right to vote.
Helen Keller studied socialism
S35 Ep11 | 1m 41s
Helen Keller became interested in socialism and demanded equal rights for all.
Keller's use of oral communication
S35 Ep11 | 2m 31s
Alexander Graham Bell shunned sign language, encouraging Keller to use oral communication.
Rapper Warren "Wawa" Snipe on hip-hop in the Deaf community
S35 Ep11 | 3m 33s
Rapper Warren "Wawa" Snipe talks about the inspiration for what he calls "Dip-Hop."
Elsa Sjunneson: DeafBlind fencer, hiker, published author
S35 Ep11 | 7m 48s
Elsa Sjunneson is a DeafBlind professor, published author, and modern-day Helen Keller.
Elsa Sjunneson: DeafBlind author [Audio Description + ASL]
S35 Ep11 | 7m 46s
Elsa Sjunneson is a DeafBlind professor, published author, and modern-day Helen Keller.
Elsa Sjunneson: DeafBlind author—Extended Audio Description
S35 Ep11 | 13m 16s
Elsa Sjunneson is a DeafBlind professor, published author, and modern-day Helen Keller.
Rita Moreno on facing sexism in the industry
S35 Ep19 | 2m 56s
Rita Moreno recalls facing sexism in the industry.
Rita Moreno's mother inspired her "One Day at a Time" role
S35 Ep19 | 1m 43s
Rita Moreno's portrayal of her role on "One Day at a Time" was inspired by her mother.
How Rita Moreno became a social activist
S35 Ep19 | 1m 6s
Rita Moreno attended the March on Washington and continued to advocate for social justice.
Rita Moreno gives one of the shortest Oscars speeches ever
S35 Ep19 | 2m 25s
Rita Moreno recalls giving the shortest Oscars speeches ever for "West Side Story."
Behind the Scenes | Rita Moreno
S35 Ep19 | 2m
Go behind the scenes of Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It.
In Memoriam: Actress Zoe Caldwell
1m 53s
Zoe Caldwell discusses how she disrupted the English class system with song and dance.
For Your Emmy® Consideration
1m
For Your Emmy® Consideration: Watch These American Masters Documentaries
Two Things That Gave Carl Reiner the Most Pleasure in Life
1m 30s
Comic legend Carl Reiner describes the two things that gave him the most pleasure in life.
Full Trailer | Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool
S34 Ep1 | 2m 24s
Discover the man behind the legend with never-before-seen footage and rare photos.
Clip | How Miles Davis Recorded "Kind of Blue"
S34 Ep1 | 2m 27s
The musicians on Davis's iconic album "Kind of Blue" were not given any sheet music.
Clip | How Miles Davis Recorded "Gems of Spontaneity"
S34 Ep1 | 1m 44s
Miles Davis recorded "gems" while fulfilling an obligation to Prestige Records.
Clip | Miles Davis Loved Playing this Prince Album on Repeat
S34 Ep1 | 44s
Miles Davis' son Erin talks about the Prince album that his father played over and over.
"We Don't Sugarcoat Anything" in this "Definitive" Doc
S34 Ep1 | 2m
The Miles Davis Estate offered unprecedented access to its archive for this film.
Preview | Director Stanley Nelson Talks About Miles Davis
S34 Ep1 | 1m 42s
Director Stanley Nelson on how this is more than just a film about a jazz musician.
Full Trailer | Mae West: Dirty Blonde
S34 Ep2 | 1m 56s
Dive into the life of groundbreaking writer, performer and subversive star Mae West.
The Mae West Film that Helped Save Paramount Pictures
S34 Ep2 | 2m 37s
The Mae West film "She Done Him Wrong" was credited with helping to save Paramount.
Mae West Made this "Insane" Film in her 80's
S34 Ep2 | 4m 19s
The film "Sextette," which Mae West made at age 87, was actually a "radical power move."
Without "Talkies" There Would Be No Mae West
S34 Ep2 | 2m 32s
Why were "talkies" (films with sound) necessary for Mae West to have become a star?
Why Didn't Mae West Keep Up with the Latest Fashions?
S34 Ep2 | 3m 13s
Mae West's persona was inspired by the fashion trends of the 1890's.
How Madonna May Have Been Influenced by Mae West
S34 Ep2 | 4m 14s
How have Madonna and other women entertainers followed in Mae West's footsteps?
Full Trailer | Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am
S34 Ep3 | 2m 16s
An artful and intimate meditation on the legendary storyteller.
The Story Behind the Title of the Novel "The Bluest Eye"
S34 Ep3 | 1m 27s
Toni Morrison recalls the time a Black childhood friend had been praying for blue eyes.
Toni Morrison On Writing Without the "White Gaze"
S34 Ep3 | 2m 29s
Toni Morrison talks about writing without the "white gaze."
Why Fran Lebowitz Always Sought Advice From Toni Morrison
S34 Ep3 | 3m 9s
Cultural critic Fran Lebowitz on why she would ask Toni Morrison for advice.
When Toni Morrison Won The Nobel Prize
S34 Ep3 | 2m 34s
Toni Morrison tells the story of going to Stockholm to accept the Nobel Prize.
Director Interview with Timothy Greenfield-Sanders
S34 Ep3 | 1m 37s
Director Timothy Greenfield-Sanders talks about how he first met Toni Morrison.
Trailer | Unladylike2020: The Changemakers
S34 Ep4 | 1m
Illuminating the stories of extraordinary American heroines.
Grace Abbott: Social Work Pioneer
S34 Ep4 | 9m 4s
Grace Abbott spent her life fighting for the rights of women, children and immigrants. Her
Maggie Lena Walker: Civil Rights Activist and Entrepreneur
S34 Ep4 | 9m 40s
Maggie Lena Walker was the first African-American woman bank founder and president.
Lillian Gilbreth: Pioneering Inventor
S34 Ep4 | 10m 20s
Lillian Gilbreth was the first woman elected to the National Academy of Engineering.
Ynés Mexía: Mexican-American Botanist and Adventurer
S34 Ep4 | 9m 17s
Ynés Mexía became one of the most accomplished plant collectors of her time.
Anna May Wong: The first Asian American Movie Star
S34 Ep4 | 11m 25s
Anna May Wong spent her acting career resisting racism and typecasting in Hollywood.
Meta Warrick Fuller: Trailblazing African American Sculptor
S34 Ep4 | 11m 25s
Meta Warrick Fuller celebrated African American cultural identity through her artwork.
The First Woman to Lead Arctic Expeditions
S34 Ep4 | 10m
Louise Arner Boyd was the first American woman to lead arctic expeditions.
She was an American Cinema Pioneer
S34 Ep4 | 12m 12s
Lois Weber was an early film pioneer and one of the first directors to own a film studio.
This Astronomer Discovered Over 300 Stars During Her Career
S34 Ep4 | 9m 34s
Williamina Fleming went from doing domestic work to becoming a trailblazing astronomer.
She was the first Chinese American woman to vote in the U.S.
S34 Ep4 | 10m 18s
Tye Leung Schulze was the first Chinese American woman to vote in a U.S. election.
She was a leader of the American labor movement
S34 Ep4 | 10m 59s
Rose Schneiderman was a pioneering labor organizer and suffragist.
The First American-Born Chinese Woman Doctor
S34 Ep4 | 10m 18s
Margaret Chung became the first American-born Chinese woman doctor in 1916.
Gladys Bentley: Gender-Bending Performer and Musician
S34 Ep4 | 11m 51s
Gladys Bentley was a musical sensation and gender identity pioneer.
Annie Smith Peck: Record-Breaking Mountaineer
S34 Ep4 | 10m 40s
She was a record-breaking mountaineer, educator and suffragist.
The First American Indian Doctor
S34 Ep4 | 11m 37s
Susan La Flesche Picotte became the first American Indian woman doctor.
Sissieretta Jones was a Trailblazing Black Opera Singer
S34 Ep4 | 11m 5s
Sissieretta Jones was the first Black woman to headline a concert at Carnegie Hall.
Queen Lili‘uokalani - The First and Last Queen of Hawai‘i
S34 Ep4 | 12m 14s
Queen Lili‘uokalani was the first sovereign queen, and the last monarch of Hawai'i.
She was the First Woman to Swim Across the English Channel
S34 Ep4 | 11m 54s
Gertrude Ederle made history in 1926 as the first woman to swim across the English Channel
The Making of Unladylike2020
S34 Ep4 | 1m 47s
Director Charlotte Mangin discusses what went into making Unladylike2020.
She was a Daredevil Performer & Advocate for the Blind
S34 Ep4 | 10m 2s
Sonora Webster Carver (1904-2003) was one of the most famous horse divers in the world.
She was a Civil Rights Activist and Co-Founder of the NAACP
S34 Ep4 | 11m 53s
Mary Church Terrell was a suffragist, civil rights activist and co-founder of the NAACP.
What Unladylike Means to Me
S34 Ep4 | 1m 46s
Modern day women from the series discuss what the term "unladylike" means to them.
An Interview with Activist Brittany Packnett Cunningham
S34 Ep4 | 1m 50s
Brittany Packnett Cunningham is a leader at the intersection of culture and justice.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Nikole Hannah Jones
S34 Ep4 | 2m 15s
She created the 1619 Project on slavery for The New York Times Magazine.
Walter Winchell Trailer
S34 Ep5 | 2m
Meet the columnist who pioneered the fast-paced journalism that dominates today.
The time Walter Winchell condemned an American Nazi rally
S34 Ep5 | 2m 53s
Walter Winchell condemned a rally of American Nazis in 1939.
Walter Winchell and the "trial of the century"
S34 Ep5 | 2m 6s
How Walter Winchell used the "trial of the century" to blend news and entertainment.
Michael Tilson Thomas Documentary Trailer
S34 Ep6 | 1m 11s
Explore the life and career of the Grammy-winning conductor, pianist and composer.
The toy behind Michael Tilson Thomas's love of dissonance
S34 Ep6 | 1m 59s
Meet Toodles, the toy behind Michael Tilson Thomas's love of dissonant music.
Michael Tilson Thomas on what he learned from James Brown
S34 Ep6 | 2m 17s
MTT talks about the James Brown song that caused him to pull the car over as a teenager.
Laura Ingalls Wilder: Prairie to Page trailer
S34 Ep7 | 3m 26s
A look at the unlikely author whose fiction helped shape American ideas of the frontier.
The letter from NY that changed Laura Ingalls Wilder's life
S34 Ep7 | 1m 49s
The news, at age 64, from a New York editor was unexpected for Laura Ingalls Wilder.
How the logs of the "Little House" cabin were stolen
S34 Ep7 | 2m 8s
How the logs that Charles Ingalls used for the little house belonged to Osage Indians.
Disaster was looming when the Ingalls moved to Minnesota
S34 Ep7 | 2m 14s
Disaster struck with the arrival of the Rocky Mountain locust invasion of 1875.
The word that Laura refused to say in her wedding vows
S34 Ep7 | 3m 35s
Laura Ingalls' courtship with Almanzo Wilder led to a unique wedding ceremony.
Until she was an author, money was a struggle for Wilder
S34 Ep7 | 2m 20s
Until she became a best-selling author, making ends meet was a struggle.
The secret mother-daughter collaboration on “Little House”
S34 Ep7 | 4m 6s
Recent scholarship has shed light on this secret collaboration.
"Little House" TV stars Alison Arngrim and Dean Butler
S34 Ep7 | 2m 58s
Arngrim and Butler talk about how the show had fans in Ronald Reagan and the Ayatollah.
Roxane Gay and others on racist “Little House” depictions
S34 Ep7 | 2m 23s
Roxane Gay, Louise Erdrich and others discuss racist depictions in Wilder’s books.
Keith Haring: Street Art Boy trailer
S34 Ep9 | 2m 16s
Explore the definitive story of international art sensation Keith Haring.
Meet Keith Haring's art dealer, famous for defacing Picasso
S34 Ep9 | 2m 48s
Keith Haring's choice for an art dealer was known for defacing a famous Picasso painting.
Hal Prince talks about the intense collaborative nature of the musical form.
American Masters has been nominated for an Emmy®!
1m
Nominated for “Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series” at the 72nd Annual Emmys.
Terrence McNally: Every Act of Life Preview
S33 Ep8 | 2m 20s
The documentary that traces Terrance McNally’s personal and professional successes.
Edie Falco on "Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune."
S33 Ep8 | 1m 58s
Edie Falco opens up about her experience in "Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune."
Rita Moreno on Terrence McNally, plus Steinbeck's advice
S33 Ep8 | 1m 34s
How Rita Moreno and John Steinbeck are connected to Terrence McNally.
Rothko: Pictures Must Be Miraculous Preview
S33 Ep11 | 30s
Discover the art world giant whose color fields changed art history and now fetch millions
Why Mark Rothko Came to America
S33 Ep11 | 2m 42s
Learn why Rothko's family emigrated from Russia to the United States.
How Abstract Expressionism Changed American Art
S33 Ep11 | 1m 57s
See how Abstract Expressionism shifted the center of the art world from Paris to New York
Mark Rothko and Adolph Gottlieb on Creating Abstract Art
S33 Ep11 | 1m 22s
How Mark Rothko and Adoph Gottlieb responded to The New York Times.
Jean-Michel Basquiat Trailer
S32 Ep8 | 3m 40s
He lived fast, died young and created thousands of drawings and paintings.
Basquiat's Childhood Accident
S32 Ep8 | 1m 27s
On Jean-Michel's first and most vivid childhood memory.
Patsy Cline: Trailer
S31 Ep3 |
Patsy Cline defined modern country music with singular talent and heart?wrenching depth.
PBS Previews: Patsy Cline
S31 Ep3 | 1m 45s
Producer and director Barbara Hall talks about the inspiration behind "Patsy Cline."
How Patsy Cline balanced home life and commercial success
S31 Ep3 | 1m 15s
Despite a rigorous performing schedule, Patsy Cline continued to manage her household.
Learn how Patsy Cline broke social norms in the '50s
S31 Ep3 | 1m 32s
Cline worked hard and broke social norms, wearing men's pants and bright red lipstick.
Hear how Patsy Cline met her husband, Charlie Dick.
S31 Ep3 | 2m
Patsy Cline and Charlie Dick met as young, talented musicians from working-class families.
How a car crash nearly ended Patsy Cline's career
S31 Ep3 | 1m 7s
At 29 years old Patsy Cline was almost killed in a head-on car collision.
Learn about Patsy Cline's first record deal
S31 Ep3 | 1m 16s
Under Patsy Cline's first contract, she was paid half the industry standard.
Learn which Patsy Cline songs inspire Reba McEntire
S31 Ep3 | 1m 31s
Patsy Cline songs like "Sweet Dreams" still inspire Reba McEntire today.
How Patsy Cline overcame the good ol' boys club
S31 Ep3 | 1m 20s
When Patsy Cline began working in country music, female headliners were rare.
Listen to how Patsy Cline "fibbed" to perform on CBS
S31 Ep3 | 2m 9s
How Patsy Cline fibbed in order to get onto Arthur Godfrey's CBS show to perform live.
The tension between Patsy Cline and Jimmy Dean
S31 Ep3 | 36s
Bill Anderson on the "not quite oil-and-water" relationship between Cline and Dean.
Alan Stoker shares some insight on Patsy Cline's work
S31 Ep3 | 1m 16s
Alan Stoker talks about Patsy's gift as a singer and an artist.
Patsy Cline: Filmmaker Interview
S31 Ep3 | 11m 16s
Filmmaker Barbara Hall comments on the making of the film, "Patsy Cline."
Explore the advent of Food Television with James Beard
S31 Ep4 | 4m 4s
James Beard played a key role in the very first food shows on television.
Insight into James Beard's life as a gay man
S31 Ep4 | 2m 39s
When sexuality was not openly discussed, James Beard was comfortable, honest and open.
Alice Waters remembers her early friendship with James Beard
S31 Ep4 | 1m 18s
Alice Waters recalls a party early in her friendship with James Beard.
Discovered the doll designed to look like James Beard
S31 Ep4 | 1m 28s
Caroline Stuart discovered a doll that was designed to look like James Beard.
Chris Cosentino shares how he discovered James Beard's work
S31 Ep4 | 1m 11s
Chris Cosentino shares the surprising story of how he discovered James Beard's work.
Duff Goldman remembers his first James Beard recipe
S31 Ep4 | 1m 16s
Baltimore-based Pastry Chef Duff Goldman shares his first James Beard memory.
PBS Previews | American Masters presents A Chef's Flight
S31 Ep4 | 1m
Executive Producer Michael Kantor comments on "A Chef's Flight."
PBS Previews | James Beard: America's First Foodie
S31 Ep4 | 1m 30s
Today’s American food movement can be traced back to one man: James Beard.
James Beard's mother was at the center of Portland's market.
S31 Ep4 | 3m
James Beard's mother was at the center of Portland's market culture.
James Beard as a Gastronomic Gigolo
S31 Ep4 | 1m 31s
James Beard began cooking and entertaining when his savings ran low as a young man.
How James Beard pioneered the farm-to-table movement
S31 Ep4 | 4m 25s
James Beard was one of the pioneers of clean cooking.
Tyrus - Trailer
S31 Ep7 | 2m 24s
Tyrus Wong's pioneering artwork led to iconic works like Bambi and Rebel Without a Cause.
Tyrus Wong's atmospheric work gave "Bambi" its unique style
S31 Ep7 | 1m 10s
Tyrus Wong's lighting and creative use of color gave "Bambi" its impressionistic style.
Tyrus Wong's detention as a new immigrant
S31 Ep7 | 57s
As a child, Tyrus Wong was detained at the U.S. border for a month during his immigration.
Tyrus Wong at the advent of Chinese Modern home decor
S31 Ep7 | 1m 23s
Tyrus Wong's skillful, inspired painting made its way across America through home decor.
See Tyrus Wong's work in classic Warner Bros. movies
S31 Ep7 | 1m 8s
After leaving Disney, Tyrus Wong joined Warner Bros., illustrating for thousands of films.
How Tyrus Wong got the job to animate Bambi
S31 Ep7 | 1m 18s
When a supervisor noticed Tyrus Wong's work, he was asked to paint for the film "Bambi"
How Tyrus Wong influenced the makers of "The Dam Keeper"
S31 Ep7 | 9m 53s
Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi discuss how Wong influenced them.
Tyrus Wong revisits Angel Island
S31 Ep7 | 1m 56s
Tyrus Wong revisits Angel Island, where he was held as a child during immigration.
Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl - Trailer
S30 Ep5 | 2m 47s
"The Queen of Country Music” is still going strong after more than 50 years of music.
Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty
S30 Ep5 | 2m 59s
Lynn, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood talk about Lynn's hit partnership with Twitty.
Loretta Lynn's Gowns
S30 Ep5 |
Loretta Lynn's personal designer shows two of her gowns displayed in her museum.
Loretta Lynn Wrote for Women. Her Song "The Pill."
S30 Ep5 | 2m 15s
Loretta Lynn, Sissy Spacek and Sheryl Crow on Lynn's work and her song, "The Pill."
Loretta Lynn: Lyricist and Songwriter
S30 Ep5 | 2m 33s
Sheryl Crow and Jack White talk about Loretta Lynn’s talent as a lyricist and songwriter.
Why Loretta Lynn Wrote "You Ain't Woman Enough"
S30 Ep5 | 1m 14s
Loretta Lynn wrote the song after hearing the plight of a young fan worried about a rival.
Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You - Trailer
S30 Ep8 | 2m 24s
Trailer for the American Masters film Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You.
Phil Rosenthal Discusses Norman Lear's Impact
S30 Ep8 | 1m 9s
Phil Rosenthal discusses the changes brought about by "All In the Family."
Norman Lear's "Maude" on Tough Issues
S30 Ep8 | 31s
The groundbreaking show "Maude" addressed women's issues, like abortion, head-on.
Norman Lear on Network Censorship
S30 Ep8 | 1m 23s
In his prolific career, Norman Lear often found himself arguing with network censors.
Norman Lear's Psychiatrist
S30 Ep8 | 1m 51s
A conversation with his psychiatrist helps Norman decide to sell syndication rights.
Rob Reiner on "All in the Family" Success
S30 Ep8 | 51s
Rob Reiner talks about the series' 8-season run.
Norman Lear - All in The Family Disclaimer
S30 Ep8 | 57s
Norman Lear's controversial work led to a disclaimer from CBS.
Norman Lear on the Red Carpet
S30 Ep8 |
Norman Lear at the red carpet premiere of "Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You."
Norman Lear and Inspiration from The Jeffersons
S30 Ep8 | 2m 12s
Commentary and discussion on Norman Lear's legacy.
Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady on Mentorship
S30 Ep8 | 1m 14s
Filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady talk about their work as directors and mentors.
The first American Masters magician, plus August Wilson, American Ballet Theatre and more.
Late, great director Mike Nichols, Janis Joplin, Fats Domino, Maya Angelou and more.
Salinger - Preview
S28 Ep2 | 34s
The first film to get beyond "The Catcher in the Rye" writer’s meticulously built wall.
Salinger - Trailer
S28 Ep2 | 2m 28s
Watch the trailer to "Salinger," the director's cut airing January 21, 2014.
American Masters 2014 Season Trailer
33s
Premieres include Salinger, the series' 200th episode, and Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth.
American Masters: 1980s Highlights
2m 33s
George Gershwin, Aretha Franklin and James Baldwin were featured during the early years.
American Masters: 1990s Highlights
1m 12s
Richard Avedon, Leonard Bernstein, and two famous filmmakers were profiled in the 1990s.
American Masters: 2000-2013 Highlights
3m 13s
Judy Garland, I.M. Pei, Edward S. Curtis, and Jimi Hendrix are among the diverse talents.
The Making of American Masters with Creator Susan Lacy
10m
The creator of American Masters talks about its concept and the making of several films.
Teaser for Jimi Hendrix: Hear My Train A Comin’
S27 Ep5 | 1m 15s
Archival performance footage and interview with Hendrix and musicians on his showmanship.
Preview of Jimi Hendrix: Hear My Train A Comin’
S27 Ep5 | 2m 4s
Archival performance footage and interviews with Hendrix and musicians on his showmanship.
Jimi Hendrix - Preview
S27 Ep5 | 30s
Premieres Tuesday, October 5, 2013 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. Check your local listings.
Cab Calloway: Sketches
S26 Ep2 | 30s
This new documentary premieres nationally Monday, February 27 (check local listings)
Interview with Kenneth Bowser
S26 Ep2 | 3m 8s
Watch an interview with Kenneth Bowser, director of Phil Ochs: But There for Fortune
Cab Calloway's Straight Hair
S26 Ep2 | 1m 49s
Musicians and cultural historians discuss how Cab's hair played into his celebrity
Cab Calloway vs. Dizzy Gillespie
S26 Ep2 | 2m 29s
Writers and critics discuss the long-time rivalry between Cab and Dizzy
Chris Calloway Brooks Discuss His Grandfather
S26 Ep2 | 3m 42s
Musician Chris Calloway Brooks discusses the music of Cab Calloway
The Blues Brothers Band Remembers Cab Calloway
S26 Ep2 | 2m 22s
The Blues Brothers Band tells a story about meeting Cab Calloway in an elevator
Peabody win for 'Eames: The Architect & the Painter'
2m 40s
American Masters wins a Peabody for 'Charles & Ray Eames: The Architect & the Painter.'
James Levine Conducts Simon Boccanegra
S25 Ep4 | 5m 19s
View a dress rehearsal with Placido Domingo in a clip from James Levine: America's Maestro
Layla Claire Rehearses with James Levine
S25 Ep4 | 2m 33s
Watch a young artist rehearse with Levine in a clip from James Levine: America's Maestro.
James Levine Conducts Beethoven's Symphony No. 5
S25 Ep4 | 3m 55s
Levine conducts the the Met Opera Orchestra's first rehearsal in Carnegie Hall
James Levine: America's Maestro - Preview
S25 Ep4 | 30s
Airs Wednesday, June 1, 2011, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT
James Levine Conducts The Bartered Bride
S25 Ep4 | 4m 52s
See the Lindemann Young Artists program in an outtake from James Levine: America's Maestro
James Levine Instructs Ed Parks on his Figaro
S25 Ep4 | 4m 25s
Watch Levine conduct a class with Ed Parks from the Lindemann Young Artists program
Levine on Conducting
S25 Ep4 | 1m 41s
In this clip, James Levine explains his unique approach to conducting the orchestra
Levine on his Childhood
S25 Ep4 | 2m 35s
In this clip, James Levine recalls his childhood and how it shaped him as a musician
Pearl Jam Twenty
S25 Ep5 | 3m
Cameron Crowe's intimate new film creates a definitive portrait of the seminal band
Woody Allen: A Documentary
S25 Ep7 | 2m 19s
Robert Weide's two-part documentary features unprecedented access
I.M. Pei Creating The Suzhou Museum Garden
S24 Ep2 | 6m 15s
Watch Pei problem-solve to create a modern garden with traditional Chinese sensibilities
I.M. Pei Discusses The Hong Kong Bank of China Building
S24 Ep2 | 2m 49s
Pei discusses the challenges he faced building a late modernist building in China
I.M. Pei Discusses The Louvre Pyramid
S24 Ep2 | 2m 15s
Pei explains the factors involved when introducing modern design to a classic institution
I.M. Pei: Building Interview
S24 Ep2 | 30s
I.M. Pei was invited to design a museum to house the antiquities of his native Suzhou.
The Doors ~ About The Film
S24 Ep3 | 30s
Drummer John Densmore, guitarist Robby Krieger, keyboardist Ray Manzarek and Jim Morrison.
Merle Haggard: Learning to Live with Myself - Preview
S24 Ep4 | 30s
Premiering July 21, 2010, American Masters pays tribute to a country music patriarch
Filmmaker of Merle Haggard: Learning to Live With Myself
S24 Ep4 | 4m 49s
Gandulf Hennig explains his film making process and shares anecdotes.
Deleted Scenes and Extras from
S24 Ep4 | 19m 17s
Watch footage from the cutting room floor for Merle Haggard: Learning to Live With Myself
A Letter To Elia - Preview
S24 Ep6 | 20s
Scorsese's portrait of Elia Kazan premieres Monday, October 4, 2010 at 9 p.m. (ET)
A Letter to Elia - Preview
S24 Ep6 | 30s
Airs Friday, July 12, 2013 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. Check your local listings.
Elton John describes John Lennon's final performance
S24 Ep7 | 1m 40s
Elton John speaks about a performance he gave with John Lennon at Madison Square Garden.
LENNONYC - Promo
S24 Ep7 | 36s
An intimate look at the time Lennon, Yoko Ono and their son, Sean, spent living in NYC.
Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould Preview
S24 Ep8 | 34s
The film exploring the man and the message of his music airs Monday, December 27, 2010.
Kevin Bazzana and the Notes of Glenn Gould
S24 Ep8 | 2m 42s
Music historian Kevin Bazzana discusses Gould's depth of character
Lorne Tulk & Glenn Gould's Chair
S24 Ep8 | 2m 52s
Hear a story about Glenn Gould's attachment to the chairs he sat in while recording
Ray Roberts & Mementos of Glenn Gould
S24 Ep8 | 3m 36s
One of Gould's oldest friends shares stories and photographs about the musical genius
GLASS: A Portrait of Philip in Twelve Parts
S23 Ep2 | 30s
Unprecedented access to Philip Glass' working process.
Hollywood Chinese ~ Introduction
S23 Ep3 | 32s
From the sexed-up Suzie Wong to the kung fu fighting Bruce Lee; Chinese through Hollywood.
Interview with the Filmmaker: Sam Pollard
S22 Ep3 | 5m 13s
Sam Pollard discusses why he wanted to share Marvin Gaye's story.
Scene from The Brothers Warner
S22 Ep4 |
Harry Warners granddaughter talks to people on Hollywood Boulevard.
Cass Warner on the Streets!
S22 Ep4 | 6m 8s
Bonus interviews from YOU MUST REMEMBER THIS: THE WARNER BROTHERS STORY.
José Clemente Orozco: Man of Fire
S21 Ep7 | 40s
Mexican muralist José Clemente Orozco led a life filled with drama, adversity & triumph.
The spark that ignited Orozco’s interest in art making
S21 Ep7 | 1m 25s
A young José Clemente Orozco was influenced by artist José Guadalupe Posada.
Orozco’s paintings were destroyed by U.S. customs agents
S21 Ep7 | 1m 19s
José Clemente Orozco left Mexico to seek artistic freedom in the United States.
The history behind one of Orozco’s most iconic paintings
S21 Ep7 | 1m 50s
“Hidalgo and National Independence" showcases Orozco's artistic intensity.
Carol Burnett: A Woman of Character Preview
S21 Ep9 | 30s
Salute the entertainer who was a one-woman army of comedic characters: Carol Burnett.
Woody Guthrie: Ain't Got No Home - Preview
S20 Ep3 | 30s
Hear the story of Guthrie’s creative energy, personal imperfections and family tragedy.
The “Black Sitting” session with Marilyn Monroe
S20 Ep4 | 1m 16s
How Milton Greene photographed Marilyn Monroe (voiced by Greene's first wife, Amy Greene).
The influence Marilyn Monroe had on many generations
S20 Ep4 | 1m 3s
Sam Shaw's name isn't well known, but his photographs of Marilyn Monroe are.
Marilyn Monroe's most iconic photograph in blowing dress
S20 Ep4 | 2m 1s
George Zimbel's photographs: Joe Dimaggio walking out on Marilyn Monroe.
Marilyn Monroe's identity according to Norman Mailer
S20 Ep4 | 27s
Norman Mailer, author of 'Marilyn: A Biography,' reads an excerpt on identity.
Marilyn Monroe's relationship with Arthur Miller
S20 Ep4 | 44s
Marilyn Monroe's relationship with playwright Arthur Miller in photos.
Marilyn Monroe's nude photograph by Leif-Erik Nygards
S20 Ep4 | 1m 20s
Leif-Erik Nygards' one photograph of Marilyn Monroe.
The many images of Marilyn Monroe's "Ballerina" session
S20 Ep4 | 2m 5s
A silent short of Marilyn Monroe's 'Ballerina' outtakes. (Photos by Milton Greene.)
The silent process of developing a photo of Marilyn Monroe
S20 Ep4 | 53s
A silent short, developing a Marilyn Monroe photograph. (Photo by Roy Schatt.)
Why Marilyn Monroe was "made for a camera"
S20 Ep4 | 1m 4s
Marilyn Monroe still surrounds us: store windows, building sides, restaurants, art.
Marilyn Monroe: Still Life - Preview
S20 Ep4 | 30s
Airs Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. Check your local listings.
Alice Waters shares her Inspiring Woman: Michelle Obama
S17 Ep4 | 29s
Alice Waters shares her Inspiring Woman: Michelle Obama.
Nina Bernstein and June Norton on Ella Fitzgerald
S14 Ep3 | 47s
Filmmaker Charlotte Zwerin interviews Nina Bernstein and June Norton
Rock and Roll Heart: Lou Reed
S12 Ep4 | 30s
Rock and Roll Heart: Lou Reed premiered in 1998 on American Masters.
Thought Leaders: A series on innovative American thinkers
38s
A series of documentaries spotlighting key figures in American politics, law and music.
Upcoming Schedule
Fri 10/6
9:00 PM
KVIE HD 6.1
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes New
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Sat 10/7
6:00 PM
KVIE World 6.3
American Masters
Orozco: Man on Fire
Muralist José Clemente Orozco, a leader of the Mexican Renaissance, inspires President Franklin Roosevelt to hire painters to work on public walls during the Great Depression.
Sat 10/7
10:00 PM
KVIE World 6.3
American Masters
Orozco: Man on Fire
Muralist José Clemente Orozco, a leader of the Mexican Renaissance, inspires President Franklin Roosevelt to hire painters to work on public walls during the Great Depression.
Sun 10/8
7:00 PM
KVIE World 6.3
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Sun 10/8
9:00 PM
KVIE2 6.2
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Sun 10/8
11:00 PM
KVIE World 6.3
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Mon 10/9
7:00 AM
KVIE World 6.3
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Thu 10/12
1:00 PM
KVIE2 6.2
American Masters
Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes
Bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach's far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him.
Sun 10/15
9:00 PM
KVIE2 6.2
American Masters
Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool
Musicians, scholars, family and friends reflect on the life of jazz musician Miles Davis; narrator Carl Lumbly.
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