Up Next
Back to Show
Watch Preview
American Masters
How It Feels To Be Free
Season 35
Episode 1
A documentary that tells the inspiring story of how six iconic African American women entertainers – Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier – challenged an entertainment industry deeply complicit in perpetuating racist stereotypes, and transformed themselves and their audiences in the process.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:25
Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:57
Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:35
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:40:39
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Unlock with PBS Passport
53:03
Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:29
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:45
Follow the 50-year career of First Amendment lawyer and legal expert Floyd Abrams.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:33:44
Experience the political and personal journey of California governor Jerry Brown.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:29:31
Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:45:01
See the world through the eyes of Nam June Paik, the father of video art.