Episode 1
James Dean: Sense Memories
1h 30m
The brief but bright career of the cinema star who inspired an entire generation.
Where to watch American Masters
TV series
American Masters
1986TV-1441 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 19 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 2
Sweet Honey in the Rock: Raise Your Voice
1h 30m
A profile of the musical group of African-American women who uniquely blend many cultural and historical themes in their work.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 3
George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey
1h 30m
The life of the famous movie director as told through the eyes of his son (who is also a director).
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 4
Bob Newhart: Unbuttoned
1h 30m
A chronicle of the famed comic's life and success, from humble accountant to world-famous funny man.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 5
Willa Cather: The Road is All
1h 30m
An analyis of the writings of the early 20th century prairie writer and the inner conflicts they exposed.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 6
Ernest Hemingway: Rivers to the Sea
1h 30m
The famous author and his colorful life as told through his writings, letters, and interviews with family and scholars.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 7
Bob Dylan: No Direction Home (1)
1h 30m10.0 / 10
A journey through the poetry and music of Bob Dylan.
Episode credits
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Episode 8
Bob Dylan: No Direction Home (2)
1h 30m8.0 / 10finale
Episode credits
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Episode 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