Episode 1
The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg
1h 30m
The poetry of the noted "beat generation" poet and the post World War II lifestyle and values reflected within his works.
Where to watch American Masters
TV series
American Masters
1986TV-1440 seasons7.0 / 10
American Masters is a PBS television series which produces biographies on enduring writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, filmmakers, and others who have left an indelible impression on the cultural landscape of the United States.
Availability
Not streaming in United States
Checked Sep 1, 2026
American Masters premiered June 23, 1986. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
Synopsis
American Masters is a PBS television series which produces biographies on enduring writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, filmmakers, and others who have left an indelible impression on the cultural landscape of the United States.
Season 12 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 2
Vaudeville
1h 30m8.0 / 10
The origins and growth of a unique form of live entertainment in the 20th century.
Where to watch American MastersEpisode 3
Billy Wilder: the Human Comedy
1h 30m
A profile of writer-director Billy Wilder.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 4
Lou Reed: Rock and Roll Heart
1h 30m9.0 / 10
Profile of one of the major leaders of new directions in rock music.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 5
Don Hewitt: 90 Minutes on 60 Minutes
1h 30m
The work of Don Hewitt in the CBS news department and the story of the long-running new magazine 60 Minutes.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 6
Alexander Calder
1h 30mfinale
A biography of the acclaimed sculptor known for his mobiles and large public art pieces.
Where to watch American MastersEpisode information updated Sep 3, 2026
Available now in United States
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More about American Masters
Cast
Scarlett JohanssonSelf
Goran VišnjićRobert Capa (voice)
Patsy ClineSelf (archive footage)
Maya AngelouSelf
Sidney LumetSelf
Oprah WinfreySelf
CommonSelf
Bill ClintonSelfCredits
- Created by
- Susan Lacy
Production details
- Status
- Returning Series
- Series type
- Documentary
- Episodes
- 315
- Original language
- English
Networks & production
PBSUnited States
Eagle Rock EntertainmentUnited Kingdom
ThirteenUnited States
Themes
artbiographypeople