TV series
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
Checked Sep 1, 2026
American Masters premiered June 23, 1986. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
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.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
Sam Cooke put the spirit of the black church into popular music, creating a new American sound and setting into motion a chain of events that forever altered the course of popular music and race relations in America.
Where to watch American Masters
Episode 2
The work of the innovative Chinese-American architect with a focus on his efforts to build an historical museum in China.
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Episode 3
A documentary that traces the roots of Jim Morrison's iconic rock group and their live and studio performances.
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Episode 4
Merle Haggard actually lived the rambling, gambling, love ‘em and leave ‘em, often brutal life that remains the bedrock of country music lyrics.
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Episode 5
A feature on the Cuban-born bassist Israel "Cachao" Lopez, an internationally renowned musician, composer, and pioneer of Mambo.
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Episode 6
Martin Scorsese pays tribute to the life and work of noted American film director Elia Kazan.
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Episode 7
A look at the period of time musician John Lennon and his family spent living in New York City during the 1970s.
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Episode 8
A fresh look at the life of a singular pianist and poet who made an international impact with his music and recordings.
Where to watch American MastersEpisode information updated Sep 3, 2026
Available now in United States
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