American Masters

About American Masters

"American Masters" is not a movie but an enduring PBS television series that offers an in-depth look at the lives and works of some of America's finest artists and cultural icons, including actors, directors, painters, and writers. Each episode profiles a different artist or collective body of work, capturing the essence of their craft and legacy. Having been on air since 1986, compelling biographies are presented that give audiences an intimate view into the creative process and impact of significant personalities to the American cultural landscape.

Making / Production

"American Masters", produced by Thirteen/WNET, New York, aims at preserving the integrity of the arts, the artists, and their work. Each episode is thoroughly researched and narrated in near-chronological order, complimented by interviews with colleagues, friends, and family, combined with archival footages and personal materials.

Actors

As "American Masters" is a documentary series, there aren't traditional actors. However, numerous notable personalities have appeared on the show, some of them are-

• Leonard Bernstein: The famed composer and conductor appeared in an episode highlighting his significant contribution to orchestral music and his life.
• James Baldwin: The acclaimed writer was featured in an episode detailing his literary work and struggle as a gay African American man during the Civil Rights movement.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was originally conceived by the executive producer Susan Lacy.
• It has aired over 250 episodes on PBS since its inception in 1986.
• "American Masters" has become a cultural institution and is a consistent award-winner.

Awards

"American Masters" has received numerous awards, including several Peabody Awards, Emmys, and the Producers Guild of America Award. It is one of the most acclaimed documentary series on television.

Quotes

As "American Masters" spans several decades and focuses on different personalities per episode, it is filled with profound quotes. However, providing quotes from the series is a vast task due to the personalized nature of each narrative.

Music, Soundtrack

"American Masters" uses a range of soundtracks depending on the personality being covered. Music varies from episode to episode covering classical, jazz, pop, and more, reflecting the individual aesthetic of the featured master.