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Let’s be honest, when you hear “Brenda Lee,” you probably think “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” And fair enough. That song is a holiday staple, as ubiquitous as eggnog and awkward family gatherings. But PBS’s “American Masters” is betting you’ll be interested in more than just a festive singalong. Their upcoming Brenda Lee documentary, airing […]

American Masters: Brenda Lee...

Contemporary culture finally caught up with Billy Crystal when he performed his Sammy Davis Jr. impression while hosting the Academy Awards in 2012. While Crystal had trotted out the character several times during Saturday Night Live’s 10th season and included a “Sammy for Africa” track on his Mahvelous comedy album without incident, many were no longer laughing at his blackface makeup, no matter how affectionate the tribute to Davis.

Feministing pointed out the obvious: “Blackface is not okay. Ever.” Grantland wondered how the Academy allowed it: “For Crystal to do this bit in blackface, at the exclusion of genuinely any sense, points to, in a Panglossianly benign interpretation of their motives, a world-class indifference to race at the very minimum.” After Octavia Spencer took home a Best Supporting Actress Oscar later that night, comedian Paul Scheer tweeted, “Octavia Spencer’s win shows just how far we’ve come since Billy Crystal performed in blackface.

A writers’ strike at PBS was narrowly averted on Thursday night as the Writers Guild of America East and member stations reached a deal.

The three stations involved in the negotiations — Boston-based Wgbh, Tri-State-area station Thirteen and greater L.A.’s PBS SoCal — announced the tentative deal on Friday morning, with the union confirming the provisional agreement just a few hours later. “Thirteen, GBH, and PBS SoCal are pleased to have reached an agreement with WGA East. We look forward to continuing our work to deliver trusted public media to our audiences,” a spokesperson for the employer group stated on Friday morning.

The unionized writers covered under the contract work on programs including Frontline, American Masters, Nova and some Ken Burns specials. They also write for the animated series Cyberchase, Carl the Collector, Molly of Denali and Work It Out Wombats.

Few details are available about the deal at present, but according to the union,...

Writers on the PBS shows “Frontline,” “Nova” and “American Experience” have voted to authorize a strike if a new contract is not reached by midnight on Thursday.

The Writers Guild of America has been bargaining since late September with three PBS stations — Wgbh in Boston, Thirteen in New York and PBS SoCal in Los Angeles. The union is seeking improved terms, such as “reasonable” residuals for streaming, for 94 writers in the bargaining unit.

If a deal is not reached, the union could call a strike as soon as Friday. A strike would halt writing work on numerous PBS shows, which also include Ken Burns Specials, “American Masters” and the PBS Kids series “Donkey Hodie” and “Odd Squad.”

The union is seeking to expand its jurisdiction to cover PBS animated series, such as “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Molly of Denali” and “Pinkalicious & Peterrific.” Writers on those shows have pledged not to...

In Molly Bernstein and Philip Dolin’s new documentary Art Spiegelman: Disaster Is My Muse, Robert Crumb is the man who came to dinner.

In one of the film’s central scenes, Crumb and his late wife Aline Kominsky-Crumb join longtime friends Art Spiegelman and his wife Françoise Mouly to break bread and discuss their respective connections as titans of the ’70s and ’80s underground comic movement. For purposes of this scene, Crumb is just a friendly and reflective old guy, a normal person having a normal dinner with his normal, if culturally significant, pals.

Crumb’s ease in this scene is disarming because while here he’s simply a peer and a colleague, he’s something much more significant in a broader cinematic context. Terry Zwigoff’s Crumb casts an impossibly long shadow over any nonfiction film about artists, comic or otherwise, but really over any biographical documentary of any kind.

In Season 38, Episode 5 of American Masters, titled “Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined,” viewers will explore the extraordinary career of acclaimed author Julia Alvarez. Known for her ability to span multiple genres, Alvarez has left a lasting impact on literature, with works ranging from nonfiction and poetry to children’s books, young adult fiction, and literary novels. This episode delves into her life, highlighting the experiences and cultural influences that shaped her writing.

Through interviews, archival footage, and insights from those who know her best, the episode paints a vivid portrait of Alvarez’s journey from her early years in the Dominican Republic to becoming a celebrated figure in American literature. Her storytelling reflects themes of identity, immigration, and cultural heritage, resonating with readers across generations.

Airing at 7:00 Pm on Sunday, September 22, 2024, on PBS, American Masters celebrates Alvarez’s diverse body of work and her contributions to the literary world.

The upcoming episode of “American Masters,” titled “Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined,” explores the remarkable career of the renowned author Julia Alvarez. Airing on PBS at 9:00 Pm on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, this episode delves into the rich tapestry of Alvarez’s work, which spans various genres and captivates diverse audiences. From nonfiction and poetry to children’s books and literary novels, Alvarez’s writing reflects her deep commitment to storytelling and cultural exploration.

Viewers will gain insight into Alvarez’s life, including her journey as an immigrant and her experiences that have shaped her unique voice. The episode showcases her passion for connecting with readers of all ages, highlighting the powerful themes of identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience present in her writing. By blending personal anecdotes and literary achievements, “Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined” paints a vivid picture of an author whose work continues to inspire and resonate.

This...

ESPN Films has greenlit a “30 for 30” documentary about Billie Jean King, which is now in production with Ridley Scott Associates and Story Syndicate, in association with Elton John’s Rocket Sports.

The docu is being touted as “the unfiltered, untold story of how King broke the rules and proved her critics wrong.” The film is told in King’s own voice and centers around one year that brings her life and career into focus: 1973.

Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus and Elizabeth Wolff (“I’ll Be Gone in the Dark”) the doc promises to shed new light on King’s life and her transformative impact on sports and society.

“The legacy of Billie Jean King is like none other,” says Garbus. “She is a generational athletic talent, a pioneer in women’s sports, and a leader in the fight for equal pay and against discrimination in sports and society.

50 years after its original run, the Norman Lear-produced sitcom "Good Times" is more than just "Dy-no-mite!" It's a spinoff within a spinoff and a classic Black family sitcom that inspired controversy as well as laughter. Like many beloved shows from the '70s, "Good Times" made headlines for behind-the-scenes drama and cast disagreements, but it also captivated audiences.

Originally formulated as a spinoff of "Maude" (which was itself a spinoff of unlikely hit "All in the Family"), "Good Times" retconned its central characters and setting in favor of a new premise. Henry (John Amos) became James, the family got poorer, and the setting switched from New York to Chicago, where it took inspiration from the Cabrini-Green housing projects. Audiences still dug the new show, though by the time it signed off five years later, it had changed entirely: Amos and original star Esther Rolle had left, and the show's most one-dimensional character,...

PBS’ “American Masters” documentary series will tackle the life of actor, activist and author Marlee Matlin with the feature documentary “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore.”

The film will use Asl as its primary language. Along with stylized captioning and dynamic editing, it aims to push the boundaries of conventional documentaries and will bring together Deaf and hearing team members across production and post-production roles.

“The film will explore Matlin’s life as a groundbreaking performer, whose meteoric and tumultuous rise to fame started in 1987 when she became the first Deaf actor to win an Academy Award for her role in ‘Children of a Lesser God.’ At the age of 21, Matlin was thrust into the national spotlight, becoming for many Americans the first Deaf person they saw on TV and overnight becoming the de-facto representative of the Deaf community,” reads its log line.

It continues: “The film boasts never-before-seen home video...

There really hasn’t been a filmmaker quite like Blake Edwards. He could go from the silly-billy comedy of his “Pink Panther” comedies starring Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau to “Days of Wine and Roses,” a devastating drama dealing with alcoholism to the gender-bender musical comedy “Victor/Victoria” starring his wife Julie Andrews to the underrated Western “The Wild Rovers” with William Holden and Ryan O’Neal. Edwards even turned the diminutive British comedian Dudley Moore into a leading man thanks to his 1979 romantic comedy “10.” And let’s not forget the extraordinary collaboration he had with composer Henry Mancini who earned four Oscars including best song “Moon River” from 1961’s “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and the title tune from 1962’s “Days of Wine and Roses.”

Still, there was no love lost between Edwards and Hollywood.

In my 2003 Los Angeles Times interview with Edwards, who had personality to spare, said “I have been a...

On Tuesday August 27 2024, PBS broadcasts American Masters!

Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames Season 38 Episode 4 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “American Masters” titled “Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames” promises to be an insightful look into the life and career of the influential director Blake Edwards. This episode will explore how Edwards transformed slapstick comedy over four decades, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry.

Viewers can expect to see highlights from Edwards’ most famous works, including classics like “The Pink Panther” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” The episode will delve into his unique style and how he blended humor with deeper emotional themes. It will also feature interviews with actors and directors who have been inspired by his work, showcasing his influence on both comedy and filmmaking.

The documentary will not only celebrate Edwards’ achievements but also provide a glimpse into his personal life. It will...

The PBS documentary series American Masters profiles the life and career of celebrated filmmaker Blake Edwards in its latest episode, airing on 27 August 2024. Born William Blake Crump, Edwards started his career in the 1940s as an actor, featuring in films such as A Guy Named Joe (1943) and The Best Years of Our […]

American Masters: Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames...

Blake Edwards could have comfortably rested in the pantheon of famed comedy directors based solely on his acclaimed Pink Panther movie series, which still charms us today with its incomparable slapstick routines and gut-busting laughs. Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames, a new entry in the American Masters series, ensures that his other movies get their due, and the episode also rounds out his personal life as a father and husband, and delves into his other pursuits, like sculpture and painting. At the center of Edwards’ life (he died in 2010) was his wife of four decades, Oscar-winning actress and singer Julie Andrews. Andrews was already famous for movies like Mary Poppins (1964) and The Sound of Music (1965) when they married in 1969 and, as the doc shows, was a huge influence on the filmmaker’s continuing career. Edwards directed her — as “a woman pretending to be a man pretending to be...

The upcoming episode of “American Masters,” titled “Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames,” promises to be an insightful look into the life and work of the legendary director Blake Edwards. Airing on PBS at 8:00 Pm on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, this episode explores how Edwards redefined slapstick comedy over four decades. His unique approach to storytelling and humor continues to influence filmmakers and actors today.

Viewers can expect a deep dive into Edwards’ career, highlighting his most iconic films and the innovative techniques he employed. The episode will showcase rare clips and interviews, providing a glimpse into the creative mind behind classics like “The Pink Panther” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Edwards’ ability to blend humor with poignant moments is a central theme, illustrating why his work remains relevant.

The episode not only celebrates Edwards’ achievements but also emphasizes his lasting impact on the film industry. Fans of cinema and comedy...

Isabel May has been acting for a while, but her breakthrough role as Elsa Dutton in 1883 has raised her profile in the entertainment industry. And with that rise comes increased interest in her relationship status, net worth, and more.

May, born Nov. 21, 2000, has always been open about discussing her work on TV and film. But revealing details about her personal life isn’t exactly May’s style.

Isabel May’s relationship status, on- and off-screen

Isabel May’s relationship status has remained under wraps since the actor joined the spotlight. She has not publicly discussed any romantic partners or shared details on social media.

Rumors once circulated that May was in a relationship with her Alex & Katie co-star Barrett Carnahan. However, Carnahan’s marriage to longtime girlfriend Nina Kubicki debunked that speculation.

In 2022, May told TheWrap that she isn’t exactly a romantic. However, she hopes for a future relationship...

A two-part HBO documentary about the life and career of comedy icon Mel Brooks has entered into production.

The documentary will be directed by Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio, and will arrive as a co-production between the former’s Apatow Productions and HBO Documentary Films. Via an official press release from Max, the documentary will be “an expansive yet intimate look at one of comedy’s most hilarious and influential minds, whose work has had audiences around the world laughing for more than 70 years.”

Apatow, who previously collaborated with Bonfiglio for another HBO comedy documentary George Carlin’s American Dream, expressed reverence for Mel Brooks’ work in a statement. “I went into comedy because of my love for Mel Brooks,” Apatow said. “This project is the dream of a lifetime.”

Mel Brooks has been the subject of several documentaries over the last few decades. PBS produced an installment of American Masters...

PBS this morning is holding court at the Television Critics Association summer press tour in Pasadena, kicking off a two-day slate of panels and presentations.

As part of its TCA presentation, PBS released its full slate of fall premiere dates for new projects and returning series, some of which may have been previously announced.

More from TVLineTVLine Items: Jodie Turner-Smith Joins Fassbender Series, NCIS: Origins Adds Two and MoreGrey's Anatomy Is Adding a New Gay Male Character Ahead of Jake Borelli's Departure as Levi (Exclusive)Young Sheldon Spinoff: Zoe Perry and Annie Potts to Appear in Georgie & Mandy Pilot...

Acclaimed writer Julia Alvarez will be the focus of a new documentary for PBS from “American Masters” and Latino Public Broadcasting. Timed to Hispanic Heritage Month, “Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined” will premiere on Tuesday, Sept, 17 at 9 p.m. Et on PBS. The program will be presented by “American Masters” and the Lpb series “Voces.”

A Dominican-American poet and novelist, Alvarez made literary waves beginning in the early 1990s with her semi-autobiographical novel “How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents” (published in 1991), followed by 1994’s “In the Time of the Butterflies,” about life under Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. Now 74, Alvarez most recently published the novel “The Cemetery of Untold Stories.”

Alvarez has been behind three nonfiction books, three poetry collections, 11 children/young adult books and seven literary novels.

“Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined” includes extensive interviews with Alvarez, her family and her literary contemporaries. The documentary is produced and directed by Adriana Bosch.

Exclusive: PBS Documentaries has launched a Prime Video channel in Canada.

Echoing its U.S. counterpart, the channel will kick off with a wealth of docs from pioneering filmmaker Ken Burns’ collection. These will include The Vietnam War, Baseball, The American Buffalo, The U.S. and the Holocaust and Muhammad Ali.

In addition to the Burns library, it will feature the likes of Nova, Frontline, American Masters, Independent Lens, The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer and The Gilded Age. Henry Louis Gates Jr’s Gospel and Finding Your Roots will also be on the channel.

The first film about a non-American subject, Leonardo da Vinci, will be added in November, according to Burns, who said he was “thrilled that Canadian audiences will now be able to see all of our past films.”

“When the channel launched in the U.S. a few years ago, it fulfilled a dream that we...

As the non-fiction community continues to reel from the closing of prominent producer financier Participant and a general slowdown in the non-fiction space, Itvs is opening the applications for its annual documentary funding initiative, Open Call, with expansions to its planned funding.

Itvs has run Open Call since the ’90s, giving out more than $100 million in funding for 600 doc projects. Recent projects include Andres Jay Molina and Alexis Neophytides’ Fire Through Dry Grass and Bing Liu’s Academy Award-nominated Minding the Gap.

This year, Itvs has plans to increase its allocated funding (Open Call provides up to $400,000 of co-production funding) and has expanded eligibility requirements to include short-form content, in additional to feature-length projects.

“The bold nonfiction stories that engage today’s streaming audiences know no bounds,“ said Itvs’ Jim Sommers. “We’re eager to expand access to Itvs Open Call through new guidelines and attract artists with diverse storytelling visions.

Third time may not always be the charm, but it was for "All in the Family." Following a pair of failed pilots, Norman Lear's pioneering sitcom hit the airwaves on January 12, 1971. Fittingly titled "Meet the Bunkers," the show's first episode is a pretty typical outing for Archie Bunker (Carroll O'Connor) and his kin. It's basically plotless; Archie and his son-in-law Michael/Mike (Rob Reiner) squabble over religion and politics like it's their personal hobby; Archie's daughter Gloria (Sally Struthers) is equally irritated and on the verge of tears as she tries to keep the peace between the stubborn men in her life; Archie is deservedly (and hilariously) made to look like a clown for his bigotry; and the whole thing wraps up with some unguarded earnestness, illustrating why his loved ones even put up with Archie in the first place.

Like any TV pilot, the characters aren't done cooking yet.

Terry Carter, who portrayed Pvt. Sugie Sugarman on The Phil Silvers Show, the sidekick of Dennis Weaver’s character on McCloud and Colonel Tigh on the original version of Battlestar Galactica, has died. He was 95.

Carter died Tuesday at his home in Manhattan, his son, Miguel Carter DeCoste, told The New York Times.

Carter appeared three times on Broadway early in his career and produced and directed a documentary on jazz legend Duke Ellington for PBS’ American Masters series in 1988.

The Brooklyn native appeared on all four seasons (1955-59) of CBS’ The Phil Silvers Show (also known as Sgt. Bilko) as Pvt. Sugarman. He then played Sgt. Joe Broadhurst alongside Weaver’s Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud on NBC’s McCloud from 1970-77 and Tigh in the 1978 Battlestar Galactica movie and 1978-79 ABC series.

An only child, John Everett DeCoste was born in Brooklyn on Dec. 16, 1928. He graduated from Stuyvesant High...

Exclusive: Juno Films will release Glenn Holsten’s documentary Jamie Wyeth and The Unflinching Eye at the Quad Cinema on April 26 followed by additional cities, including the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Mr. Wyeth will host a Q&a the evening of April 27th, along with the director, the acclaimed writer Lea Carpenter. The film will be released on digital platforms in August.

As the heir to a three-generation dynasty in American art, Jamie Wyeth struggles to find his own voice during the colorful turmoil of pop culture and politics from the 1960s to the present. This first feature-length documentary of the artist follows his journey capturing iconic figures like John F. Kennedy, Andy Warhol, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Rudolf Nureyev, as well as his unique, sometimes unsettling, views of domestic life, the islands of Maine and his own personal ghosts. The film’s release coincides with a multi-city exhibition of Mr.

Prepare for an enlightening journey into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential conservative voices in the upcoming episode of “American Masters.” Airing this Sunday, April 7, at 7:00 Pm on PBS, Season 38 Episode 3 titled “The Incomparable Mr. Buckley” delves deep into the intellectual evolution and political impact of William F. Buckley Jr.

Through captivating storytelling and insightful commentary, viewers will gain a comprehensive understanding of Buckley’s profound influence on American conservatism. From his early days as a controversial young writer to his rise as a prominent political commentator and founder of the National Review magazine, the episode explores Buckley’s remarkable journey with depth and nuance.

Featuring interviews with scholars, colleagues, and contemporaries, “The Incomparable Mr. Buckley” offers a compelling exploration of his ideas, principles, and enduring legacy. Don’t miss this captivating episode of “American Masters” as it celebrates the life and contributions of William F.

This Friday, April 5, 2024, PBS brings viewers an insightful journey into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential conservative figures in “American Masters.” In the Season 38 Episode 3 titled “The Incomparable Mr. Buckley,” audiences are invited to explore the intellectual evolution and political impact of William F. Buckley Jr., the renowned American conservative writer, and political commentator.

Through captivating storytelling and in-depth interviews, “American Masters” delves into Buckley’s life, tracing his journey from his early years to his rise as a prominent voice in conservative thought. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of Buckley’s complex persona, his role in shaping political discourse in the United States, and his lasting legacy in American conservatism.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a political junkie, or simply curious about the life of influential figures, “American Masters” promises an engaging and enlightening experience. Tune in at 9:00 Pm this Friday...

Get ready for an enlightening episode of “American Masters” on PBS this Sunday at 7:00 Pm. In Season 38 Episode 2, titled “Moynihan,” viewers will delve into the extraordinary life and legacy of Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-n.Y.).

Considered to have one of the most distinguished and diverse public careers in U.S. political history, Senator Moynihan’s impact on American politics and society is profound. From his groundbreaking work as an advisor to multiple presidents to his tenure as a long-serving senator, Moynihan left an indelible mark on the nation.

Through captivating storytelling and insightful commentary, “American Masters” offers a compelling exploration of Moynihan’s life, from his humble beginnings to his rise to prominence in the corridors of power. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of Moynihan’s contributions to shaping American policy and his enduring influence on contemporary politics.

Don’t miss this fascinating portrait of a political...

Get ready to dive into the fascinating life and career of one of America’s most influential politicians in the upcoming episode of “American Masters” titled “Moynihan,” airing this Friday at 9:00 Pm on PBS.

This installment of “American Masters” delves into the life of Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, a towering figure in U.S. political history. With a career spanning decades, Moynihan left an indelible mark on American politics with his unique perspectives and unwavering dedication to public service.

Viewers will have the opportunity to explore Moynihan’s journey from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected and influential senators in Washington, D.C. Through archival footage, interviews, and expert analysis, “Moynihan” offers a comprehensive look at the life and legacy of this remarkable statesman.

Don’t miss this captivating episode of “American Masters,” as it shines a light on the extraordinary contributions of Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan,...

Cass Warner, a filmmaker and author born into Hollywood royalty and mother of Yellowstone actor Cole Hauser, has died. She was 76.

The granddaughter of Warner Bros. co-founder Harry Warner, Cass Warner’s death was announced by her son Hauser. Additional information including cause and date of death was not disclosed.

“It is with a heavy heart that my mother. Cass Sperling Warner passed away at the age of 76,” Hauser wrote on Instagram. “Her kindness, love, humor and amazing spirit will be missed by not only my family but the world. You have touched so many. I know you will be up in the heavens sitting next to all the great humans that have passed through our earth. We will meet again. Bye for now.”

Born March 8, 1948, Cass Warner was a self-described third-generation filmmaker. Her father was writer/producer Milton Sperling, who was involved in more than 50 films including the Oscar-nominated...

Cass Warner, filmmaker, author and granddaughter of Harry Warner, co-founder of Warner Bros., has died. She was 76.

Her death was announced by her son and Yellowstone actor Cole Hauser on his Instagram page. “Her kindness, love, humor and amazing spirit will be missed by not only my family but the world. You have touched so many,” he wrote.

Cass’ grandfather, Harry Warner, was the eldest Warner brother, a Polish immigrant who co-founded the studio in 1923 after jumping into the early days of movie mania in 1905 with brothers Sam, Albert and Jack. The foursome created a cinematic powerhouse, a dream factory that was the social conscience of Hollywood, one that churned out timely and topical films about the Great Depression, the rise of fascism, the Red Scare and more.

Harry’s daughter, Betty Warner Sheinbaum, wrote of her father as “a very serious man. He was the company’s conscience and driving force.

Yellowstone star Cole Hauser shared some tragic family news. What did the star who portrays Rip Wheeler on the hit Taylor Sheridan show have to share?

Here is the latest news.

Yellowstone Pictured: Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler. Photo: Emerson Miller for Paramount Yellowstone Star Cole Hauser Shares Tragic Family Loss

Early on Thursday, Yellowstone star Cole Hauser went to Instagram to share some sad news. The 48-year-old actor eloquently wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that my mother, Cass Sperling Warner passed away at the age of 76. Her kindness, love, humor and amazing spirit will be missed by not only my family but the world. You have touched so many. I know you will be up in the heavens sitting next to all the great humans that have passed through our earth. We will meet again. Bye for now ”

In the comment field, many actors and friends shared...

Delve into the captivating world of art with “American Masters” as it presents Season 37 Episode 10, titled “Hopper: An American Love Story.” Airing on PBS at 9:00 Pm on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, this episode offers an intimate look into the life, work, and relationships of the renowned artist Edward Hopper.

The episode explores Hopper’s early career as an illustrator, providing insights into the formative years that shaped his artistic journey. Viewers can anticipate a comprehensive exploration of Hopper’s critical and commercial acclaim, unraveling the layers of his creative process and the impact of his evocative work on the art world.

“Hopper: An American Love Story” is a must-watch for art enthusiasts and those curious about the intricacies of one of America’s most celebrated artists. Tune in to PBS for a visually stunning and emotionally resonant episode that pays homage to Edward Hopper’s enduring legacy in the world of art.

In a clip from the documentary, Little Richard: I Am Everything, we hear the young entertainer singing an early version of what would become his signature tune, “Tutti Frutti.” But surprise! The original lyrics were different than the ones we know today: “Tutti frutti, good booty/Tutti frutti, good booty!”

The song, as Richard wrote it, was about gay sex. In 1955, it would become the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer’s breakthrough hit, catapulting him to mainstream stardom — but only after the words were revised to something much more benign: “Tutti frutti, oh rooty/Tutti frutti, oh rooty!”

The sanitized lyrics symbolize the deep conflict between Little Richard’s public persona and his private life, and how he could hit the stage in all his authentic glory, then do an about-face when the spotlight became too white-hot and too controversial — especially in the deep South, at a time when the definition...

A24 are delivering a special gift to Max this December, as Leo Reich’s acclaimed stand-up show Literally Who Cares?! hits the streamer. The comedian has already won over the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Off-Broadway with runs of the show, but this performance was taped at EartH in London. Consider checking it out – if A24 got involved in the project, you know you’ll definitely see something weird and special.

But if you’re looking for something more serious, add the new three-part documentary series Murder In Boston: Roots, Rampage & Reckoning to your watch list this month. The upcoming series delves into the fallout from the investigation into Charles “Chuck” Stuart’s 911 call reporting that he and his pregnant wife, had been shot in Boston’s Mission Hill neighborhood in 1989.

Here’s everything coming to (and leaving) HBO and Max this month…

HBO and Max New Releases – December 2023

December...

PBS has set premiere dates for the new year as Winter 2024 looks forward to new episodes of Finding Your Roots, All Creatures Great and Small, and Call the Midwife among others. Slated to arrive between January and March, we’re breaking down all the need-to-know dates, below: January 2024 Monday, January 1 Great Performances, “From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2024” – 8pm Et Tuesday, January 2 Finding Your Roots (Season 10) – 8pm Et American Masters, “Hopper: An American Love Story” – 9pm Et A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy – 10pm Et Sunday, January 7 Miss Scarlett and the Duke on Masterpiece (Season 4) – 8pm Et All Creatures Great and Small on Masterpiece (Season 4) – 9pm Et Funny Woman – 10pm Et Antiques Roadshow (Credit: Meredith Nierman / ©Wgbh / Courtesy: Everett Collection) Monday, January 8 Antiques Roadshow (Season 28) – 8pm Et The Cost of Inheritance: An America Reframed Special – 10pm Et Tuesday, January 9 Independent Lens, “Beyond Utopia” – 9pm Et Wednesday, January 10 Nature,...

PBS’ acclaimed documentary series American Masters has launched a new inclusion effort aimed at supporting stories by, for and about disabled communities.

The Visibility, Inclusion and Accessibility Initiative aims to expand American Masters‘ commitment to stories and creatives within the larger disability community, launching with a new series, Renegades, alongside a talent incubator and expanded accessibility features for programming distributed by the series.

“There is a broad and diverse audience hungry for this content,” said Michael Kantor, executive producer of American Masters. “Thanks to steadfast support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and other partners, we look forward to working closely with Day Al-Mohamed and Amanda Upson to expand and deepen our commitment to stories for, by and about people with disabilities.”

Debuting in October 2024, the digital series Renegades will highlight and celebrate the lives of diverse American historical figures with disabilities, with five teams of disabled filmmakers producing, directing and writing the episodes.

On Friday, October 6, 2023, at 9:00 Pm, PBS will air Season 37, Episode 9 of “American Masters” titled “Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes.”

This episode delves into the life and legacy of Max Roach, a groundbreaking figure in the world of music. Max Roach was not only a virtuoso composer but also a pioneer in the realm of bebop. His musical talents and innovations left an indelible mark on the world of jazz and beyond.

Max Roach’s aspirations and creative endeavors were deeply influenced and motivated by the societal injustices he witnessed around him. Throughout his career, he used his music as a platform to address and challenge these inequities, making a profound impact on the cultural and social landscape of his time.

“American Masters” offers viewers a captivating look into Max Roach’s journey, showcasing his contributions to music and his commitment to using his art as a means of advocating for change.

On Friday, September 29, 2023, at 10:00 Pm on PBS, viewers can tune in to the latest episode of “American Masters.” This episode, titled “A Song for Cesar,” offers a unique perspective on the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez, a prominent figure in the farmworker movement.

The show provides a comprehensive look at various aspects of Cesar Chavez’s life, starting from his childhood to his final days. Through this documentary, audiences will gain insights into his journey, the challenges he faced, and his remarkable contributions to the labor rights movement.

“A Song for Cesar” is a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to advocating for the rights and better treatment of farmworkers. It explores the impact of his work and the enduring legacy he left behind.

For those interested in history and social justice, this episode of “American Masters” promises to be an informative and thought-provoking exploration of...

Steven Yeun, an Oscar, SAG and Emmy nominee most recently seen in the critically acclaimed series Beef, has signed with WME for representation.

He was previously at CAA.

Yeun is perhaps best known for the role of Glenn Rhee for six seasons on AMC’s The Walking Dead, which was at the time one of, if not the biggest, shows on television.

In 2020, Yeun was nominated for Oscar and SAG awards for his performance in Lee Isaac Chung’s drama Minari, released by A24 and on which he also served as an executive producer.

And he most recently starred in and executive produced Netflix’s critically acclaimed drama Beef, which also starred Ali Wong. The series received a sweep of Emmy nominations, with Yeun receiving one for best actor in a limited series and one for exec producing the show via the best limited series category. (The Emmy Awards ceremony...

On Friday, September 22, 2023, at 9:00 Pm, PBS will broadcast Season 37, Episode 7 of “American Masters,” titled “Floyd Abrams: Speaking Freely.”

This episode shines a spotlight on the remarkable 50-year career of First Amendment attorney Floyd Abrams. His legal journey has been marked by landmark cases that have left a lasting impact on the United States. Notable among these cases are his involvement in the Pentagon Papers and Citizens United.

For those interested in the First Amendment, freedom of speech, and the pivotal legal battles that have shaped the nation, this episode provides a simple and direct look at Floyd Abrams’ work.

So, if you want to gain insight into the career of a prominent attorney who has played a key role in defending free speech, make sure to tune in to PBS on the specified date and time for “Floyd Abrams: Speaking Freely” on “American Masters.”

Release Date & Time: 9:00 Pm...

On Friday, September 15, 2023, at 9:00 Pm on PBS, “American Masters” will feature an episode titled “Jerry Brown: The Disrupter.” This episode delves into the life and career of Jerry Brown, the longest-serving governor in California’s history.

The show explores Jerry Brown’s remarkable political and personal journey, focusing on his significant contributions to critical issues such as climate change and inequality. Viewers will gain insights into his disruptive approach to governance and how he tackled pressing problems during his tenure.

This episode of “American Masters” offers a unique opportunity to learn about the impact of a prominent political figure and his work on shaping the landscape of California and addressing global challenges.

For those interested in politics, environmental issues, and social justice, this episode provides a comprehensive look at Jerry Brown’s legacy and the issues he championed.

Release Date & Time: 9:00 Pm Friday 15 September 2023 on PBS

American Masters...

One might see Rod Serling's 1959 sci-fi anthology series "The Twilight Zone" as an ambitious amalgam of all modern genre writers. Prior to production, Serling famously solicited scripts from some of the best-known sci-fi writers of his time, including the likes of Ray Bradbury, Richard Matheson, George Clayton Johnson, Malcolm Jameson, and several others. Serling typically wrote the scripts for "The Twilight Zone" himself ... which led to some occasional accidental plagiarism. "The Twilight Zone," then, was somewhat of a culmination of an entire generation's sci-fi literature.

Now handily condensed, many of the more striking speculative tales of the day could be easily consumed by a mass public. Serling's show was a huge hit and lasted five seasons before going off the air in 1964. Sering later wrote "Planet of the Apes" in 1968.

Thanks to syndication deals and Thanksgiving marathons, "The Twilight Zone" lingered in the pop consciousness for decades, eventually spawning...

Nancy Buirski, a PGA Award winner who produced the 2016 film Loving that was inspired by her documentary, directed several films including last year’s Desperate Souls, Dark City and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy and founded the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, died August 29. Her company Augusta Films announced the news but did not provide details.

Buirski began her career as photographer and photo editor for The New York Times and in 1998 founded the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, which she would lead for a decade. Her first directing job was on The Loving Story (2011), a documentary about Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple who married in 1958 without knowing their union was illegal in Virginia, where they lived and went on to face an ultimately successful legal journey that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1967 as Loving v Virginia.

The film was shortlisted for...

Nancy Buirski, the award-winning documentary filmmaker known for “The Loving Story” and “Desperate Souls, Dark City and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy,” has died.

Her production company Augusta Films shared the news of her death on Wednesday in a statement, writing, “Nancy’s extensive and rich body of work delved into a wide range of social, cultural and historical issues with keen insight, humanity and above all, artistry.”

Buirski directed 2011’s “The Loving Story,” a documentary about the Supreme Court case of Loving v. Virginia, which led to the landmark civil rights decision that struck down state laws banning interracial marriage. She received a News & Documentary Emmy for outstanding historical programming, long form, as well as a Peabody Award.

In 1998, Buirski founded the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, which spotlights independent documentary filmmakers from around the world. She served as director of the festival until 2008.

Buirski’s most recent documentary,...

The classic Harold Lloyd comedy “Safety Last” is turning 100 years old this year. But with its heavy dollops of action and a superstar’s real-life derring-do, it doesn’t seem a day over 10, even if it does date back to the silent era. The film screens this Sunday as the climax of the Academy Museum’s “Silent Sundays” series, with a live score from a 24-piece orchestra helping heighten the suspense in the ultimate fear-of-heights movie.

Lloyd’s granddaughter, Suzanne Lloyd, will be on hand for the anniversary screening. As the keeper of her granddad’s flame for decades, she has perspective on how “Safety Last” resonates with contemporary audiences, especially an extended final act that has the ‘20s star climbing a skyscraper in downtown L.A. and finally hanging from a wayward clockface, in one of the most iconographic images in all of movie history.

“Maybe he was the 1920s Tom Cruise,...

Mae West in Night After Night Photo: Irving Lippman Mae West, who was born 130 years ago this month, made a career out of being funny, smart, and sexy in an industry that doesn’t often give women the space to be more than one thing at a time. Both on screen and off,...

Graphic: Getty Images

Mae West, who was born 130 years ago this month, made a career out of being funny, smart, and sexy in an industry that doesn’t often give women the space to be more than one thing at a time. Both on screen and off, West turned sexism...

The Better Angels Society, the Library of Congress, and the Crimson Lion/Lavine Family Foundation have unveiled six finalists for the fifth annual Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film. Notably, veteran filmmaker Sam Pollard received two of the six noms.

The award, established in 2019, recognizes late-stage documentaries that use original research and a compelling narrative to tell stories that bring American history to life through archival materials.

The six projects that were selected are: Barak Goodman’s “Buckley,” Nicole London’s “The Disappearance of Miss. Scott,” Sam Pollard’s “The Harvest,” Peter Yost and Michael Rohatyn’s “Drop Dead City – New York on the Brink in 1975,” Sam Pollard and Ben Shapiro’s “Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes,” and Jason Cohn’s “Modernism Inc.: The Eliot Noyes Design Story.”

This year 125 American history documentary features were submitted for consideration.

“We’ve seen time and again what...

Max is following DC’s lead with its list of new releases for July 2023.

The two big ticket items this month are of the superhero variety. My Adventures with Superman arrives to Max on July 7 after making its Adult Swim premiere the night before. The end of the month sees Harley Quinn season 4 making its long-awaited debut on July 27. Other original TV titles of note are the Steven Soderbergh-directed Full Circle (July 13) and the third and final season of How To With John Wilson on July 28.

On the movie side of things, documentary Glitch: The Rise and Fall of HQ Trivia premieres on July 20. Before that on July 13 is both a fresh reboot of filmmaking competition Project Greenlight and the movie that came of it, Gray Matter. Library movies in July include Pulp Fiction, V for Vendetta, Lethal Weapon, and more on July 1.

Here is everything else coming to HBO and Max this month.

Richard Treat Williams is well-known for his acting career that spanned over 50 years. He’s known for his roles in movies and TV series like Hair and Everwood, and at 71 years old, he still had acting roles left in his future. Unfortunately, Williams died in June 2023 due to a motorcycle accident. He’s survived by his wife and kids. So, who is Treat Williams’ wife, Pam Van Sant?

Who is Treat Williams’ wife, Pam Van Sant?

Treat Williams and Pam Van Sant were married for 35 years before his death in 2023. They reportedly met when she waitressed in New York, and they began dating in 1988. Williams and Sant married that same year, and Sant later accompanied Williams regularly on the red carpet. Before meeting Sant, Williams reportedly dated actors such as Dana Delany and Laura Dern.

Sant has plenty of credentials of her own. Born in 1955, she went on to act and produce American Masters,...