Episodes

Explore the life and career of the singer, songwriter and co-founder of The Beach Boys. The film traces the legendary performer’s journey of reflection on a drive through Los Angeles with his longtime friend and Rolling Stone editor Jason Fine.

Joe Papp, founder of The Public Theater, Free Shakespeare in the Park and producer of groundbreaking plays like "Hair," "A Chorus Line" and "for colored girls," created a 'theater of inclusion' based on the belief that great art is for everyone.

On January 17, 2001, actress and dancer Baayork Lee discussed landing her first role on Broadway at age 5, working with Richard Rodgers and other Broadway greats, and her passion for choreography. Interview conducted for "American Masters: Richard Rodgers: The Sweetest Sounds" (2001), directed by Roger Sherman.

On July 24, 1997, architect I. M. Pei shared his thoughts on the relationship between sculpture and scale, including why abstract sculpture has no limit to scale compared to the lifelike elements of sculptures scaled to the human figure. Interview conducted for "American Masters: Alexander Calder," directed by Roger Sherman.

Narrated by Jason Momoa, discover the inspiring story and considerable impact of five-time Olympic medalist Duke Kahanamoku. He shattered swimming records and globalized surfing while overcoming racism in a lifetime of personal challenges.

On February 21, 2006, Gloria Steinem spoke about Marilyn Monroe's lasting legacy, what she represented to women and men, and how the advent of the women's movement could have provided her the support she desperately needed. Interview conducted by Gail Levin, director of "American Masters—Marilyn Monroe: Still Life."

On March 7, 2000, Laura Linney discussed her time at the prestigious and notorious Juilliard and how it helped shape her as an actor. "I was just lucky that Juilliard accepted me because it was the right program for me. It's not right for everyone, but I was really, really lucky to get in." Interview conducted for "American Masters: Juilliard" (2003), directed by Maro Chermayeff.

On July 31, 1997, Patti Smith shared her thoughts on the 70s rock and roll scene and how Lou Reed of the Velvet Underground inspired her as a young girl in South Jersey. Interview conducted by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, director of "American Masters—Lou Reed: Rock And Roll Heart" (1998).

On February 8, 1996, Dionne Warwick discussed her musical influences and the impact that Lena Horne and others had on her career, in this clip from our digital archives. Interview conducted for "American Masters—Lena Horne: In Her Own Words" (1996), directed by Susan Lacy.

On June 28th, 2000, novelist Gloria Naylor spoke about the illusion of the American dream and the role it plays in Nella Larsen's "Passing." She discussed the motivations behind the characters of the critically acclaimed novel in this extended outtake from the American Masters Digital Archive. Interview originally conducted by Michael Epstein, director of Novel Reflections on The American Dream.

On August 6th, 2001, musician Herbie Hancock sat down with Michael Kantor, director of "American Masters — Quincy Jones: In The Pocket" (2001) and current executive producer for American Masters, to discuss the legendary producer's career and influence in the music industry.

On May 29, 2007, comedian Betty White discussed the groundbreaking work of Carol Burnett and Lucille Ball. She delves into the history of women in comedy in this extended outtake originally conducted for "American Masters - Carol Burnett: A Woman of Character" (2007).

Discover an international singer who captivated royalty in Europe and defied the conscience of 1939 America. Watch rare archival footage and hear audio recordings exploring her life and career from the Metropolitan Opera to the State Department.

Discover the legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey whose dances center on the Black American experience with grace, strength and beauty. Featuring previously unheard audio interviews with Ailey, interviews with those close to him and an intimate glimpse into the Ailey studios today.

Pépin loves a cold soup in the summer, and this recipe for tomato-cucumber gazpacho puts good use to the less attractive cucumbers from his garden. He adds Tabasco sauce for some heat, and Greek yogurt for creaminess.