Up Next
Back to Show
American Masters
Nina Bernstein and June Norton on Ella Fitzgerald
Before Ella Fitzgerald became the First Lady of Song and earned 13 Grammy Awards, she spent much of her teenage years as an orphan, finding odd jobs and, at times, living on the street. Journalist Nina Bernstein and Fitzgerald’s longtime friend June Norton discuss one of the singer’s most difficult periods.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:50
Revisit the remarkable career and life of an icon who became a human rights pioneer.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:28:42
Explore the life and 70-year career of the iconic Latina actor, performer and activist.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:39:49
The story of the author of the “The Joy Luck Club.”
52:28
Explore the life of artist Keith Haring who revolutionized pop culture and fine art.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:56:29
An artful and intimate meditation on the legendary storyteller.
1:23:25
Delve into the enigmatic life of Pulitzer Prize-winning author and poet N. Scott Momaday
53:11
Follow the country music superstar’s journey from segregated Mississippi to Nashville.
1:52:53
Explore the entertainer’s life with unprecedented access to his archives. Director's cut.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:53:14
"The Queen of Country Music” is still going strong after more than 50 years of music.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:10
Ric Burns’ documentary on the rich, 75-year history of the preeminent ballet company.
53:20
Explore the creative genius of I.M. Pei as he reshapes the future of architecture in China