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American Masters

Lorraine Hansberry on being young, gifted and black

With her health failing, Lorraine Hansberry left the hospital to speak to the teenage winners of a national writing contest. She described the young writers as "young, gifted and black" - the words that inspired the Nina Simone song of the same name - and urged them to represent their community in their work.

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American Masters Season 39
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1:22:55
Discover how celebrated cookbook writer Marcella Hazan shaped Italian cuisine in America.
Hannah Arendt: Facing Tyranny
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1:23:45
Discover Hannah Arendt, one of the most fearless political writers of modern times.
Janis Ian: Breaking Silence
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1:51:14
Trace the life and music of “Society’s Child” folk icon and LGBTQ+ advocate Janis Ian.
Art Spiegelman: Disaster is My Muse
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Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.
LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
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Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.
The Disappearance of Miss Scott
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Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around
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52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined
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Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.
Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames
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1:23:35
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.
Thought Leaders
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1:40:39
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Moynihan
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Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
HOPPER: An American love story
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53:03
Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.
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