American Masters

Discover the life of singer-songwriter Janis Ian and how she rose as a folk icon and gay rights advocate. She broke ground with “Society’s Child” (1966), a bold take on interracial love, and “At Seventeen” (1975), a searing anthem about bullying.

Explore the work of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and the impact of his Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel Maus, about his parents’ survival of the Holocaust. A defender of free speech, Spiegelman has spoken out as book bans spread across the country.

Take an intimate look into the life of Liza Minnelli, best known for her Oscar-winning role in Cabaret. Following in the footsteps of her mother Judy Garland, Minnelli used her boundless raw talent to build her own legacy in showbiz.

How could we forget the one and only Hazel Scott? She was not only the most famous jazz virtuoso of her time, but she was the first African-American to have her own television show. This feature documentary will shine a light on this incredible talent whose voice—like the voices of so many women, especially women of color—has been lost.

Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan. Going beyond the "Moynihan Report," President Joe Biden, Ta-Nehisi Coates and others reflect on his decades-long fight to end national poverty.

Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works. Known for “Nighthawks” and other evocative paintings of American life, Hopper has left a lasting impression on our culture. Meet the man behind the brush, and see how his marriage to fellow artist Josephine Nivison Hopper shaped his art and career.

Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard. With appearances by Keith Richards, Ringo Starr, Big Freedia and more, this portrait of the “King and Queen of Rock and Roll” explores his far-reaching influence — still felt in pop culture today — and his advocacy for the rights of Black artists in the music industry.

See the world through the eyes of Nam June Paik, the father of video art and coiner of the term “electronic superhighway.” Born in Japan-occupied Korea, Paik went on to become a pillar of the American avant-garde and transformed modern image-making with his sculptures, films and performances. Experience his creative evolution, as Academy Award nominee Steven Yeun reads from Paik's own writings.

Follow two performers as they break down barriers in music. Opera singer J’Nai Bridges takes the stage in “A Knee on the Neck,” a choral tribute to George Floyd. Country artist Rissi Palmer redefines success as she works on her latest album, while uplifting other artists of color in the Americana genres.

Follow Dr. Anthony Fauci as he grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic and his 50-year career as the nation’s leading public health advocate. American Masters: Dr. Tony Fauci reveals a rarely seen side of the physician, husband and father as he confronts political backlash, a new administration and questions of the future.

Follow the music icon from a piano lounge through her rise to stardom. From “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” to “Killing Me Softly,” Flack’s virtuosity was inseparable from her commitment to civil rights. Detailing her story in her own words, the film features exclusive access to Flack’s archives and interviews with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Peabo Bryson and more.

The journey and legacy of five-time Olympic medalist Duke Kahanamoku, who broke swimming records and popularized modern-day surfing while overcoming racism.

Exploring the life and legacy of singer Marian Anderson and her work as an advocate for the civil rights advocate.

The life and career of choreographer Alvin Ailey, whose dances focus on the Black experience, interviews with those close to him and a glimpse into his dance studios.

The life and career of author Amy Tan, with archival imagery, home movies, photographs, animation and original interviews.

The life and work of neurologist and storyteller Oliver Sacks, including personal details about his battles with drug addiction and homophobia.

The life and career of jazz trumpeter Doc Severinsen, leader of the band for "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," who continued a schedule of touring and performing into his 90s.

Explore legendary choreographer Twyla Tharp’s career and famously rigorous creative process, with original interviews, first-hand glimpses of her at work and rare archival footage of select performances from her more than 160 choreographed works.

Explore the life of Flannery O’Connor whose provocative fiction was unlike anything published before. Featuring never-before-seen archival footage, newly discovered journals and interviews with Mary Karr, Tommy Lee Jones, Hilton Als and more.

A documentary that tells the inspiring story of how six iconic African American women entertainers – Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier – challenged an entertainment industry deeply complicit in perpetuating racist stereotypes, and transformed themselves and their audiences in the process.

Meet Walter Winchell, the newspaper columnist, radio commentator and television personality who pioneered the fast-paced, gossip-driven, politically charged journalism that dominates today. At his peak, his audience was 50 million. Stanley Tucci portrays Winchell in a new American Masters documentary.

Mark the women’s suffrage centennial with stories of pioneering women who shaped American politics.

Toni Morrison leads an assembly of her peers and critics on an exploration of the powerful themes she confronted throughout her literary career in this artful and intimate meditation that examines the life and work of the legendary storyteller.

American Masters — Mae West: Dirty Blonde is the first major documentary film to explore Mae West’s life and career as she "climbed the ladder of success wrong by wrong" to become a writer, performer and subversive agitator for social change. West achieved great acclaim in every entertainment medium that existed during her lifetime, spanning eight decades of the 20th century. She possessed creative and economic powers unheard of for a female entertainer in the 1930s and still rare today.

Discover the man behind the legend. With full access to the Miles Davis Estate, the film features never-before-seen footage, including studio outtakes from his recording sessions, rare photos and new interviews.

A profile of the conductor, his work with the civil rights movement, and his musical legacy.

Playwright, librettist, scriptwriter and outspoken LGBTQ activist Terrence McNally has long believed in the power of the arts to transform society and make a difference. The film lifts the curtain on the life, career and inspirations of the complicated and brilliant Emmy- and four-time Tony Award-winning writer.

A documentary about an important American still photographer who captured New York City in the 1960s (his work there is said to have influenced the TV show Mad Men) and later the West in Texas and Los Angeles.

Hungarian immigrant Joseph Pulitzer becomes one of America's most feared and admired newspaper moguls and a crusader for freedom of the press.

For 40 years, singer and activist Holly Near works on global social justice coalition-building in the women's and lesbian movements.

Raised in segregated Mississippi, country performer Charley Pride proves artistic expression can triumph over prejudice and injustice.

Sammy Davis, Jr. had the kind of career that was indisputably legendary, so vast and multi-faceted that it was dizzying in its scope and scale. And yet, his life was complex, complicated and contradictory. Davis strove to achieve the American Dream in a time of racial prejudice and shifting political territory.

Meet James Watson, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist behind the double helix as he confronts his complex legacy. With unprecedented access to Watson and his family, "American Masters: Decoding Watson" explores his life, achievements, controversies and contradictions.

As the wild ride of the 1960s came to a close, Eva Hesse, a 34 year-old German-born American artist was cresting the wave of a swiftly rising career. One of the few women recognized as central to the New York art scene, she had over 20 group shows scheduled for 1970 in addition to being chosen for a cover article in ArtForum Magazine. Her inventive sculptures were finally receiving both the critical and commercial attention they deserved. When she died May 1970 from a brain tumor, the life of one of that decades’ most passionate and brilliant artists was tragically cut short. American Masters deepens the understanding of this extraordinary artist, not only in terms of her innovative work with fiberglass and latex, but also the life that provided the fertile soil for her achievements. Through dozens of new interviews, Hesse’s artwork and a wealth of newly discovered archival imagery, the documentary traces Hesse’s path and delves deep into the creative communities of 1960s New York and Germany. Written and directed by Marcie Begleiter.

American Masters: Ted Williams (w.t.) will also look at the impact the iconic hitter has had on the current generation of stars in Major League Baseball. Superstars like Kris Bryant, Daniel Murphy and Josh Donaldson have credited Williams’ methods to hitting as guides in their own approach today.

A profile of Hollywood star Hedy Lamarr (1914-2000), who was known as the world's most beautiful woman. Behind the pretty face, however, was the mind of an ingenious inventor whose pioneering work helped revolutionize modern communication. An Austrian Jewish emigrant, she invented a covert communication system to try to help defeat the Nazis; and it was her concept that is now used as the basis for secure WiFi, GPS and Bluetooth technologies.

Explore the inner life and works of the activist, playwright and author of “A Raisin in the Sun,” Lorraine Hansberry. Narrated by actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson and featuring the voice of Tony Award-winning actress Anika Noni Rose as Hansberry.

The unlikely story of 106-year old Chinese American artist Tyrus Wong, and how he overcame poverty and racism in America to become a celebrated modernist painter, Hollywood sketch artist, and “Disney Legend” for his groundbreaking work on the classic animated film, Bambi.

A trove of never-before-seen archival footage provides an unconventional look at the fiercely independent style of filmmaking that emerged out of Austin, Texas in the late 1980s and 1990s with Linklater as its poster boy.

Discover the story of Chef Jacques Pépin (b. December 18, 1935), a young immigrant with movie-star looks, a charming Gallic accent, and a mastery of cooking and teaching so breathtaking he became an early food icon—joining James Beard and Julia Child among the handful of Americans who transformed the way the country views the food world.

Experience a century of food through the life of one man, James Beard (1903-1985). Dubbed the “Dean of American Cookery” by The New York Times, Beard was a Portland, Ore., native who loved and celebrated the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. He spoke of the importance of localism and sustainability long before those terms had entered the vernacular.

A profile of influential country singer Patsy Cline (1932-63), featuring archival performances of such songs as "Walkin' After Midnight," "I Fall to Pieces" and "Crazy"; and remarks from artists who knew her and others influenced by her.

The life of author and activist Maya Angelou, with comments from Oprah Winfrey, Common, Bill and Hillary Clinton and others.

In a 2008 interview, director Sidney Lumet talks about his life and career, which included 44 films in 50 years.

A profile of country music icon Loretta Lynn, whose hard-fought road to stardom was dramatized in the 1980 film "Coal Miner's Daughter." Included: home movies, photos and concert footage, plus insights from family, friends and fellow musicians, including Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire, Willie Nelson, Jack White and Trisha Yearwood.

The New Orleans rhythm and blues of Fats Domino helped aid integration in the South.

Rare home movies, performances and photos help illustrate the life and career of singer-songwriter Carole King, from 1960s New York to Los Angeles in the 1970s to the present.

The challenging life and career of blues guitarist B.B. King; candid interviews feature Bono, Bonnie Raitt, Carlos Santana, Eric Clapton, John Mayer, and Ringo Starr.

The life and 50-year career of director Mike Nichols, one of only two people who have won Peabody, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards.

Delving into the rich history of one of the world’s preeminent ballet companies, Ric Burns combines intimate rehearsal footage, virtuoso performances and interviews with American Ballet Theatre’s key figures.

A profile of legendary violin virtuoso Jascha Heifetz (1901-87), featuring remarks from violinists Itzhak Perlman, Ivry Gitlis and Ida Haendel; former students Ayke Agus and Sherry Kloss; and biographers John Anthony Maltese and Arthur Vered.

Unprecedented access to Wilson’s theatrical archives, rarely seen interviews and new dramatic readings bring to life his seminal 10-play cycle chronicling a century of African-American life. Wilson won two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.

This portrait of the inimitable magician Ricky Jay delves into the mysterious world of sleight-of-hand and its small circle of eccentric devotees. Jay is also a best-selling author, historian, actor and a leading collector of antiquarian books and artifacts. Told largely in Jay’s own distinctive voice, the documentary traces the story of his achievement and that of other master magicians.

Tanaquil Le Clercq (1929–2000) was a star ballerina with the New York City Ballet who greatly influenced choreographers George Balanchine (her husband) and Jerome Robbins (her friend). Filmmaker Nancy Buirski spotlights Le Clercq’s ballet career, influence on dance, and her struggle with polio, which paralyzed her at the height of her fame.

Profiling George Plimpton (1927-2003), whose exploits in participatory journalism led to such fun reads as "Paper Lion" (about how he tried out for the Detroit Lions) and "Out of My League" (about his stint pitching to baseball all-stars). He also edited the literary journal Paris Review; hung out with U.S. presidents; and served as the Big Apple's (unofficial) fireworks commissioner. The documentary includes archival footage; and remarks from such notables as Robert Kennedy Jr. and Hugh Hefner.

An exploration of the environmental movement from the 1960s through 2009. Included: the battle in the 1960s to block dams from the Grand Canyon; the Love Canal scandal of the 1970s; Greenpeace's efforts to save whales and baby harp seals; the global resource crises of the 1980s; and the 25-year effort to address climate change. Narrators include Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Ashley Judd, Van Jones and Isabel Allende.

A profile of writer Alice Walker, the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (for her 1982 novel "The Color Purple"). Included: remarks from Walker; Danny Glover; Quincy Jones; Sapphire; Steven Spielberg; and Howard Zinn. Filmmaker Pratibha Parmar’s new documentary tells Walker’s dramatic life story with poetry and lyricism, and features new interviews with Walker, Steven Spielberg, Danny Glover, Quincy Jones, Gloria Steinem, Sapphire and the late Howard Zinn in one of his final interviews.

Featuring never-before-seen photographs, personal stories and moments from J.D. Salinger’s (1919 -2010) life and harrowing service in World War II, Salerno’s new director’s cut expands his intimate portrait of the enigmatic author of The Catcher in the Rye. Included are his relationship with Oona O'Neill, WWII experiences, and involvement with younger women - including writer Joyce Maynard. The documentary features archival footage and photos; and remarks from friends, colleagues and such admirers as John Cusack and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

A profile of composer Marvin Hamlisch (1944-2012), featuring remarks from family and such friends as Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon, Steven Soderbergh, Quincy Jones, Tim Rice, Christopher Walken, Joe Torre, Woody Allen, John Lithgow and Ann-Margret. Among his credits: the hits "The Way We Were" and "Nobody Does It Better"; and the scores for "The Sting," "Sophie's Choice" and the Broadway smash "A Chorus Line."

A profile of literary lion Philip Roth. Interviewed at his New York City apartment and Connecticut farmhouse, he reflects on his upbringing in Newark, N.J., writing process and psychoanalysis, as well as the inspiration behind his most famous characters, including Alexander Portnoy, and his historical novels. The documentary also features insights from such friends as Mia Farrow; literary critic Claudia Roth Pierpont (New Yorker); and writers Jonathan Franzen, Nicole Krauss and Nathan Englander.

Despite not being a household name today, Sister Rosetta Tharpe is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Her flamboyance, skill, and showmanship on the newly electrified guitar played a vital role in the conception of Rock & Roll as a genre of music. Featuring archival performances and using new interviews with fellow musicians, producers, friends, and colleagues, this film tells the story of a talented and determined woman that introduces spiritual passion of her gospel music background into Rock & Roll. Learn more about Sister Rosetta Tharpe, her life story, and lasting artistic legacy.

One of the biggest bestsellers of all time, To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) is the first and only novel by a young woman named Nelle Harper Lee, who once said that she wanted to be South Alabama’s Jane Austen. Lee won the Pulitzer Prize and became a mystery when she stopped speaking to press in 1964. More than 50 years after its publication, To Kill a Mockingbird has been translated into more than 40 languages worldwide, still sells nearly one million copies each year and is required reading in most American classrooms, making it quite possibly the most influential American novel of the 20th century. The 1962 film version, starring Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, won a trio of Academy Awards. Harper Lee: Hey, Boo chronicles how this beloved novel came to be written, provides the context and history of the Deep South where it is set, and documents the many ways the novel has changed minds and shaped history. For teachers, students or fans of the classic, Hey, Boo enhances the experience of reading To Kill a Mockingbird.

Margaret Mitchell: American Rebel engages leading historians, biographers and personal friends to reveal a complex woman who experienced profound identity shifts during her life and struggled with the two great issues of her day: the changing role of women and the liberation of African Americans.

A singer, dancer and bandleader, Cab led one of the most popular African American big bands during the jazz and swing eras of the 1930s-40s, with Harlem’s famous Cotton Club as his home stage. Best known for his “Hi de hi de hi de ho” refrain from signature song “Minnie the Moocher,” portrayal of Sportin’ Life in Porgy and Bess (1952), and role in The Blues Brothers (1980), Cab influenced countless performers, including Michael and Janet Jackson, and many of today’s hip-hop artists.

Three-time Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Kenneth Bowser examines one of American history’s most iconic folk music heroes and political agitators. Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a revealing biography of a conflicted, truth-seeking troubadour who, with guitar in hand, stood up for what he believed in and challenged us all to do the same.

Told in big themes and bold colors with blistering sound, Pearl Jam Twenty chronicles the years leading up to the band’s formation, the chaos that ensued soon-after being catapulted into superstardom, their step back from the spotlight with the instinct of self-preservation, and the creation of a trusted circle that would surround them — giving way to a work culture that would sustain them. Part concert film, part insider hang, part testimonial to the power of music and uncompromising artists, the film celebrates the freedom that allows Pearl Jam to make music without losing themselves, their fans, or the music lovers they’ve always been. Pearl Jam Twenty features new interviews with original band members Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, and Eddie Vedder, drummer Matt Cameron, and friend and Soundgarden singer/guitarist Chris Cornell, as well as archival performance and interview footage of Mother Love Bone, Pearl Jam, Temple of the Dog, Kurt Cobain, and Neil Young.

A behind-the-scenes lok at the internationally-renowned conductor of New York's Metropolitan Opera.

This documentary explores the life and legacy of America’s first environmentalist and Sierra Club’s founder. Mountaineers portray Muir in reenactments filmed in Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada, Alaska, Wisconsin, and Alhambra Valley.

Focusing on musicians ranging from James Taylor and Carol King to Elton John.

A retrospective on the laid-back actor who has entertained audiences for close to 40 years.

Merle Haggard actually lived the rambling, gambling, love ‘em and leave ‘em, often brutal life that remains the bedrock of country music lyrics.

A documentary that traces the roots of Jim Morrison's iconic rock group and their live and studio performances.

The work of the innovative Chinese-American architect with a focus on his efforts to build an historical museum in China.

Sam Cooke put the spirit of the black church into popular music, creating a new American sound and setting into motion a chain of events that forever altered the course of popular music and race relations in America.

The work of the legendary rock musician and his artistic and intellectual transitions over the decades.

From the first Chinese-American film produced in 1916, to Ang Lee's triumphant Brokeback Mountain nine decades later, this films brings together a group of actors, writers, directors -- and iconic film images -- to examine Chinese contributions to an industry that was often ignorant and dismissive about race. Such artists as Wayne Wang, Joan Chen, David Henry Hwang, Nancy Kwan and Amy Tan share their experiences of being "the other." These stories and film clips from more than 90 films -- some dating back to the 1890s -- weave a rich tapestry and complex history.

Scott Hicks' acclaimed 2007 film on a year in the life of the modern experimental composer.

The work of the American dance pioneer and choreographer who brought ballet techniques to the Broadway stage.

"Good War, Uneasy Peace (1935-50)" focuses on how Warner Bros. responded to the Great Depression and World War II, when such stars as Humphrey Bogart, Bette Davis and Errol Flynn graced its pictures. Also: the post-war film noirs are explored. Included: "Casablanca," "Now, Voyager," "The Adventures of Robin Hood," "Kings Row" and "White Heat"; interviews with James Cagney, Howard Hawks, Ronald Reagan and Alexis Smith. Clint Eastwood narrates.

Clint Eastwood narrates the history of Warner Bros., which opens with "You Ain't Heard Nothin' Yet (1923-35)," about the studio's first years, when its biggest star was Rin Tin Tin. Also remembered is its move into gritty fare, featuring James Cagney, Edward G. Robinson and Barbara Stanwyck, and its musicals. Included: "The Jazz Singer," "Public Enemy," "42nd Street," "Baby Face" and "Little Caesar"; interviews with Busby Berkeley, Alfred Hitchcock, Robinson and William Wellman.

An in-depth profile of the talented but troubled star who brought more contemporary issues to soul music.

A recounting of the versatile and controversial work of one of the most flamboyant African-American writers from the first half of the 20th century.

The folk music of a world-famous performer as interested in social change as in the history of American roots music.

A documentary on the wildlife art of an early American naturalist who achieved long-lasting acclaim.

The story of an internationally renowned production and set designer for the greatest opera houses in the world, a music lover who is going deaf.

The musical career and startling technical innovations of a 20th century guitar and sound recording master.

How Ahmet Ertegun built a recording industry empire in the decades after World War II.

Contemporary scholars and novelists give fresh perspectives on some of the great American written works of the 20th century.

Walter Cronkite was the man who gave us the news for two tumultuous decades in the late 20th century. As historian, journalist and author David Halberstam says in praise of the great CBS newsman: "Most Americans really learned of the evening news and learned of Vietnam and learned of the civil rights movement and learned of Watergate with Walter Cronkite as the man who ushered it into their homes. And did it with great professionalism over a very long time and was I think absolutely true to himself." In AMERICAN MASTERS Walter Cronkite: Witness to History, a documentary narrated by Katie Couric, historians, fellow journalists and CBS colleagues appraise the career of the man who was called "the most trusted man in America." CBS writer and commentator Andy Rooney, legendary producer/director Don Hewitt, correspondents Mike Wallace, Morley Safer, Lesley Stahl and Barbara Walters, columnists Molly Ivins and Helen Thomas, Senator John McCain and President Jimmy Carter guide the viewer from Cronkite's early days as a foreign correspondent in World War II through his thirty-year career at CBS News.

The life and times of the hard traveling music-man Woody Guthrie.

Archival performances, home movies and interviews illustrate singer Nat King Cole's achievements during a 30-year music and television career.

John Ford and John Wayne — a friendship and professional collaboration that spanned 50 years, changed each others’ lives, changed the movies, and in the process, changed the way America saw itself. It was a relationship that reflected all the elements and all the paradoxes of 20th century America — generosity of spirit, abuse of power, a sense of loyalty, and a restless nationalism that didn’t quite know what to do with itself.

A chronicle of the famed comic's life and success, from humble accountant to world-famous funny man.

The life of the famous movie director as told through the eyes of his son (who is also a director).

A profile of the musical group of African-American women who uniquely blend many cultural and historical themes in their work.

The brief but bright career of the cinema star who inspired an entire generation.

A retrospective on the life and work of George Balanchine, a founder of American ballet.

“Eternally elegant” screen superstar Cary Grant (1904-86) is profiled. Included are clips from his films and interviews with ex-wife Betsy Drake and widow Barbara Grant. There are also comments from biographers and film critics, and costars Eva Marie Saint and Martin Landau. Helen Mirren is the narrator, and Jeremy Northam provides the voice of Grant.

The highs and lows of the life of James Brown, the colorful and controversial "Godfather of Soul".

The dispute between one of America's most influential playwrights and a respected movie director over actions taken during the "red scare" of the 1950s.

Portrait of an American woman who helped pioneer the fresher and simpler cuisine that emerged in California in the later 1970s.

A retrospective on the history and work of the famous American school for academic mastery of the performing arts.

A biography of the influential actor and director of silent film classics and his contributions to character expression and make-up effects.

An up-close look at the songs and lifestyle of the popular country western personality.

Profile of the career of the ground-breaking musician and producer.

The remarkable songs of America's best-known composer of music for the stage.

An examination of the themes and characters of the noted novelist.

The story of the dreams and accomplishments of Samuel Goldwyn, a determined immigrant who founded a Hollywood movie dynasty.

The incredible career of Lucille Ball, from youth through the movies, from television star to media mogul. Some of the personalities that comment in this film include Fran Drescher, Van Johnson, Dick Martin, Edie Adams, and Carol Burnett. This episode won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Non-Fiction Program.

A profile of the half-century career of George Cukor, one of the most beloved motion picture directors and producers, and the impact he had on those in the industry.

The American writer Norman Mailer and his bristling personality - in his own words.

Profile of the actor who rose from niche westerns to movie industry fame and influence.

Profile of the well-known jazz singer, from early band performances and "scat" to her solo career.

A presentation of the award-winning PBS series American Masters, Norman Rockwell: Painting America etches a warm and indelible portrait of one of America's most beloved artists.

A chronicle of the clash between two film-making legends when they tried to work together in the 1940s.

Documentary about the life of Paul Robeson: actor, scholar, and rights activist.

An in-depth look at the famous art and caricatures of Al Hirschfeld.