Rather than utilizing the traditional autobiographical structure, his new memoir Dropped Names chronicles his memories and experiences with over 60 famous friends who have passed away. “I think my life story is more interesting told that way and…it’s only a piece of my life. I’m a supporting player. When I tried to do a biography of my own life, I fell asleep over the pen…I was disinterested in it,” Langella tells Tavis.

From the arts and motion pictures to politics and sports, recent guests, who were born in places as far away as Latvia or as close as Sacramento, CA, had the studio (as always) buzzing with thought-provoking and lively discussion on sports, business, politics, scandal, arts and entertainment.

The celebrated writer built his reputation on expanding the horizons of Native American literature, breaking down common misconceptions of his people and offering a truer history of Native American culture. Read up on the novelist, watch a video as he reveals a learning faux pas and tune in to his conversation with Tavis.

Read up on our guest, who is often cited as one of the greatest ballet dancers in history. Tune in for his two-part conversation with Tavis.

After nearly a decade-long hiatus from the movie business, the writer-producer-director is making a comeback with Darling Companion. Brush up on some trivia on one of pop culture’s major contributors.

Check out images of and quotes from guests in February and March 2012.

Check out some interesting bits on the NBA icon and entrepreneur that you will not be able to find on the back of a trading card and tune in for his conversation with Tavis.

Before the season 5 premier of Mad Men, we sat down with Matthew Weiner, creator of the award-winning series, and talked about the show’s future with AMC. Watch the video as you prepare for this weekend’s season 6 debut.

The Grammy-winning singer-actor explains why he chose “Hell in a Handbasket” as the title for his new CD and shares how he uses art to address the devolution of our culture. Check out a selection of his performances and projects, and tune for his conversation with Tavis.

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2012 (March 8), The Daily Beast hosted its annual Women in the World Summit. The event included a wide panel of speakers—including past guest and peace activist Leymah Gbowee.