Skip to main content
Back to Show
American Masters

Overcoming the distinct challenge of indoor swimming

After smashing the Amateur Athletic Union's world record in 1911, Duke Kahanamoku was brought from Hawaii to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to prove his talents in another race. But Duke found his mind and body shocked by his first time swimming in an indoor pool. Though he lost this race, he would go on to win many more. "The building blocks of a waterman is humility," says surfer Laird Hamilton.

Support Provided By
Season
Dr. Tony Fauci
1:53:11
Join Dr. Anthony Fauci as he reflects on his life and career as a public health advocate.
Roberta Flack
1:23:43
Discover music icon Roberta Flack’s rise to stardom and triumphs over racism and sexism.
Keith Haring: Street Art Boy
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:28
Explore the life of artist Keith Haring who revolutionized pop culture and fine art.
Robert Shaw – Man of Many Voices
Unlock with PBS Passport
53:11
Trace the journey of one of America’s greatest choral music conductors.
This Is Bob Hope...
1:52:53
Explore the entertainer’s life with unprecedented access to his archives. Director's cut.
Edgar Allan Poe: Buried Alive
1:24:03
See a new side of innovative writer Edgar Allan Poe, best known for Gothic horror tales.
Jacques Pépin: The Art of Craft
Unlock with PBS Passport
53:37
Today he is known as a kitchen supernova, but Jacques Pépin's career began humbly.
Harper Lee
1:23:12
Explore the mysterious life of Harper Lee, the author of To Kill a Mockingbird
American Masters Season 29
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:10
Ric Burns’ documentary on the rich, 75-year history of the preeminent ballet company.
I.M. Pei: Building China Modern
53:20
Explore the creative genius of I.M. Pei as he reshapes the future of architecture in China
Louisa May Alcott: The Woman Behind 'Little Women'
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:09
The first film biography about the celebrated author, Louis May Alcott.
No Direction Home: Bob Dylan
Unlock with PBS Passport
3:25:42
Explore musician Bob Dylan's evolution from folk troubadour to iconic rock star.
Active loading indicator