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American Masters 1986

Status
Returning Series
First Aired
June 23, 1986
Last Aired
March 17, 2026
Format
40 seasons · 311 eps
Total Runtime
~466.5 hours (90 min/ep)
Highest Rated Episode
S3E2 "A Duke Named Ellington" (★ 10/10)
Created By
Susan Lacy
Network
PBS
Where to Stream
YouTube TV, PBS, Thirteen
Streaming data from JustWatch
★ TMDB users: 7.0/10 from 25 votes TV-14 Documentary 40 seasons · 311 eps Returning Series
Community & Your Rating
★ 7.0/10
Where to watch: PBSWETA+KQEDYouTube TVThirteen
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Quick answer

What is American Masters?

American Masters is a PBS television series that explores the lives of influential figures in American culture. The show focuses on enduring writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, filmmakers, and others who have made significant contributions to the United States' cultural landscape.

Type
TV series
Year
1986
Status
Returning Series
Episodes
311
Runtime
90 minutes
First aired
Jun 23, 1986
Last aired
Mar 17, 2026
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
PBS
Genres
Documentary
Updated
Series guide

At a glance

Rating
★ TMDB users: 7.0/10 from 25 votes
Format
40 seasons · 311 episodes
Episode runtime
~90 minutes
Status
Returning Series
Network
PBS
Availability by region

Where to watch in United States

Stream

YouTube TVPBSThirteenWETA+

Free

PBSWETA+

With ads

KQED
Check current availability in United States ↗

Streaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.

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How long to binge?

Estimate the schedule using 311 episodes and an average 90-minute runtime.

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Overview

American Masters is a PBS television series that explores the lives of influential figures in American culture. The show focuses on enduring writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, filmmakers, and others who have made significant contributions to the United States' cultural landscape. Produced by WNET in New York City, the series presents biographical documentaries that celebrate the achievements and lasting impact of its subjects. Through in-depth storytelling, American Masters provides insight into the personal and professional journeys of individuals whose work has shaped American arts and culture. The program has covered a wide range of notable personalities, reflecting the diversity and richness of creative expression in the country. Episodes are available through PBS platforms, offering audiences access to detailed explorations of cultural icons. The series continues to honor those who have left an indelible mark on American society through their artistic and creative contributions.

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Should you watch it?

“This PBS series explores the lives and legacies of influential figures in American arts and culture.”

Reasons to watch
  • in-depth artist profiles
  • historical cultural context
Keep in mind
  • subject matter is academic
  • pacing is deliberate

Watch it if you are interested in learning about the individuals who shaped the American cultural landscape.

The series features biographical content suitable for general audiences interested in the arts.

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Your verdict

Is American Masters worth watching?

Cast

Comprehensive Directory

Episode guide

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39%
61%
Mytharc (88): Crucial lore & season climaxes
Core (140): Character development & subplots
Side Quest (0): Standalone / filler
Season 1 · 12 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide & lore primer →
Season 2 · 10 episodes Open the complete Season 2 guide & lore primer →
Season 3 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 3 guide & lore primer →
Season 4 · 10 episodes Open the complete Season 4 guide & lore primer →
Season 5 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 5 guide & lore primer →
Season 6 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 6 guide & lore primer →
Season 7 · 3 episodes Open the complete Season 7 guide & lore primer →
Season 8 · 2 episodes Open the complete Season 8 guide & lore primer →
Season 9 · 4 episodes Open the complete Season 9 guide & lore primer →
Season 10 · 5 episodes Open the complete Season 10 guide & lore primer →
Season 11 · 5 episodes Open the complete Season 11 guide & lore primer →
Season 12 · 6 episodes Open the complete Season 12 guide & lore primer →
Season 13 · 7 episodes Open the complete Season 13 guide & lore primer →
Season 14 · 7 episodes Open the complete Season 14 guide & lore primer →
Season 15 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 15 guide & lore primer →
Season 16 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 16 guide & lore primer →
Season 17 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 17 guide & lore primer →
Season 18 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 18 guide & lore primer →
Season 19 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 19 guide & lore primer →
Season 20 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 20 guide & lore primer →
Season 21 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 21 guide & lore primer →
Season 22 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 22 guide & lore primer →
Season 23 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 23 guide & lore primer →
Season 24 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 24 guide & lore primer →
Season 25 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 25 guide & lore primer →
Season 26 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 26 guide & lore primer →
Season 27 · 5 episodes Open the complete Season 27 guide & lore primer →
Season 28 · 10 episodes Open the complete Season 28 guide & lore primer →
Season 29 · 8 episodes Open the complete Season 29 guide & lore primer →
Season 30 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 30 guide & lore primer →
Verified insights

Frequently asked questions

What is American Masters?

It is a PBS television series that produces biographies on significant contributors to American culture.

Who is featured in the series?

The series profiles writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, and filmmakers.

What is the focus of the biographies?

Each episode focuses on individuals who have left an indelible impression on the cultural landscape of the United States.

Is this a documentary series?

Yes, the series produces biographies documenting the lives and work of enduring creative figures.

Where can I watch this series?

The series is broadcast on PBS.

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