Biography
81 episodes
Harry S. Truman
Harry S. Truman
Henry Ford: Tin Lizzy Tycoon
He made the automobile accessible to the common man. The common man made him rich. Henry Ford was one of the great innovators of our time. When the car he invented became so popular he couldn't build them fast enough he came up with the modern assembly plant to meet demand. The rest is history. BIOGRAPHY profiles the life of the industrial giant who earned notoriety for his intolerance as well as his inventiveness. Interviews with former workers and family members point out his genius and eccentricities while automotive historians trace his monumental career from his first hand-built car to saving his company with the introduction of the V-8 at an age when most men are long retired. This is the fascinating story of the driven man who changed the way we all live ironically spelling an end to the America he loved.
Mata Hari
Mata Hari
Paul Revere: The Midnight Rider
He risked everything to free his nation. Now venture into the incredible life and legacy of Paul Revere, the master silversmith who forever changed the course of American history. Every child knows of Revere’s thrilling “midnight ride,” but beyond the folklore was a man at the center of a revolution. Although he is one of the country’s first folk heroes—inspiring Longfellow’s famous 1861 poem—few people realize that Revere also led the Sons of Liberty, risked death as a courier and spy, helped organize the Boston Tea Party, and used his smithery skills to engrave powerful propaganda that enraged British rulers. Biography presents a rousingly unique look at the famed patriot, chronicling his service as a Continental Army colonel in the war—and beyond—to his prosperous life as an early American industrialist.
Bruce Lee: The Immortal Dragon
A video tribute to a martial arts legend, Bruce Lee. Examined are his early years in Hong Kong and his journey to Hollywood, his role of Kato on the TV series 'The Green Hornet', and his years as the martial arts instructor to the stars. Lee's spectacular rise to super stardom through his Kung Fu films is detailed, with a revealing look at both the on-screen action and behind the scenes controversy. Celebrity interviews include actor James Coburn talking about Lee as a teacher and collaborator, and actress Diane McBain on Lee's Kato years. Lee's successors in martial arts cinema are profiled, and theories offered about mysterious deaths of Bruce Lee and his son Brandon. Plus rare footage and more! Although his life was cut short at the age of 32, Bruce Lee-- through his movies and his teachings-- will forever be remembered as the Immortal Dragon!
Sid Caesar: Television's Comedy Genius
The biography details Sid Caesar's rise to television superstardom as the creative force behind legendary 1950s variety programs like Your Show of Shows and Caesar's Hour. It highlights the unmatched comedic talent that Sid Caesar surrounded himself with, featuring contributions and reflections from iconic writers and co-stars such as Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Neil Simon, and Woody Allen. The program analyzes how his frantic sketch comedy, physical humor, and smart satire laid the foundational blueprint for future sketch shows like Saturday Night Live.
The Rockefellers
Follows John D. Rockefeller's ruthless and focused pursuit to control the oil refining industry through Standard Oil, making him the world's first billionaire. Examines how he avoided personal excess and passed down a tradition of giving. Looks at how his son and later generations dedicated their lives to charitable foundations and public works funded by the family fortune.
Teddy: A Kennedy Portrait
Countless books, documentaries, and even dramatized accounts have centered on America's royalty, the Kennedys of Massachusetts. No stone has gone unturned in the media's fervent examination of this fascinating family. But the youngest Kennedy, Ted, has often been dismissed as living in the proverbial shadows of his brothers. This Biography carefully and thoughtfully documents his intriguing life, the scandals and the redemption, the tragedies and the triumphs.
General Omar Bradley
He took a nation of raw recruits and turned them into the finest fighting force in history: The United States Army of World War II. When Pearl Harbor plunged America into war, the nation was unprepared to fight. Yet within months, G.I.s were tearing through North Africa, ready to storm Europe. General Bradley was the military genius who made the American assault possible. Called "The finest Group Commander in any nation's ground forces" by General George Marshall, here is the story of Bradley's brilliant military career. Made with the cooperation of the archives of the U.S. Naval Institute, this program includes government footage of the training exercises that prepared the nation for war, and interviews with the men Bradley commanded. Discover the dramatic behind-the-scenes story of the strategic mastermind who helped change the course of World War II.
Marilyn Monroe - Behind the Legend
One-hour A&E biography hosted by Jack Perkins showing the life story of Marilyn with home movies, film clips, and interviews with peers like Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, and Susan Strasberg.
Houdini: The Great Escape
Documentary about Harry Houdini (1874-1926) which includes on camera appearances by Patrick Culliton, Penn and Teller, and Houdini's last living assistant, Dorothy Young.
George Washington: Founding Father
The life, military career, and presidency of George Washington—tracing his path from a privileged youth, surveyor, and Virginia farmer to British military officer, general of the Continental Army, and the first President of the United States. Explore the truths and explode the myths of the man who remains "First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen."
Christa McAuliffe: Teacher in Space
Portrait of the teacher who died in the tragic explosion of the space shuttle Challenger in 1986. Follows her journey from a classroom teacher to a space pioneer through interviews with parents and students.
Wilbur and Orville: Dreams of Flying
Explores their early days running a print shop and a bicycle repair and manufacturing business in Dayton, Ohio. Details their path from studying gliders and bird flight to achieving the first powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. The world knows them as the bicycle mechanics who taught the world to fly here, the personal stories of Wilbur and Orville are told.
Gene Roddenberry: Star Trek and Beyond
We learn about Roddenberry's early life, service as a World War II Army Air Corps pilot, and tenure as an L.A. Police Department officer. We see his transition into television writing for shows like Dragnet and Have Gun – Will Travel. We learn about the creation, rejections, and eventual greenlighting of the original Star Trek series with the help of Lucille Ball and Desilu. Contains interviews and retrospectives detailing his optimistic vision for science fiction and humanity.
Donald Trump: Master of the Deal
He was the poster-boy for the excess and glitz of the '80s. When the economy took a turn for the worse, experts assumed that his time at the top had come to an end. But Donald Trump is back and stronger than ever. See how he pulled off one of the most remarkable business turnarounds in history, remaking his empire in the face of the economic climate of the '90s. In a remarkable interview, Trump talks about the low points filing for bankruptcy for his beloved Taj Mahal casino and the difficult divorce from Ivana as well as his carefully crafted return to the center stage of high finance. Extensive footage shows the best and worst moments of his time in the public eye, while interviews with friends, colleagues and associates shed light on the character of a man who refused to stay down for long. Join Biography for a revealing portrait of the phoenix-like rebirth of Donald Trump the master of the deal.
Frank Capra: Mr. Capra Goes to America
Frank Capra's rise to fame as one of early Hollywood's most acclaimed directors. We learn about his birth in Bisacquino, Sicily, his arrival in the United States, and his engineering studies at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Details his service in the U.S. Armed Forces in Europe during World War I and an accidental meeting with a former instructor that led him into silent films as a technician with Mack Sennett. Explores how Capra learned every aspect of filmmaking—including lab work, editing, and splicing in San Francisco—before joining Columbia Pictures and turning the studio from "Poverty Row" into a major competitor during the talkie and Depression eras. This episode features one of director Frank Capra's final interviews, recorded in 1988 for Italian television.
Davy Crockett: American Frontier Legend
For over 150 years, his legacy has been immortalized in literature, song, and cinema. While master hunter Davy Crockett is perhaps best known for his struggle to push further westward into the American frontier and for his advocacy for the poor, he was also a thrice-elected member of the U.S. Congress. Crockett's rugged upbringing in the backwoods of Tennessee set the tone for what would become a life marked by adventure and loyalty to his fellow man. From his disheartening service in the U.S. Army to his profession of the principles of common justice to his life's end at the Alamo, Crockett will always be an indelible symbol of the great American spirit. BIOGRAPHY employs dramatic reenactments and captivating interviews with noted historians to tell the epic tale of America's beloved "King of the Wild Frontier".
Roy Rogers: American Legend
In a time of innocence, his straightforward cowboy manner made him and his horse American icons. At the height of his fame, Roy Rogers was one of Hollywood's biggest stars. In 1948, his movies sold nearly 100 million tickets. In the 1950s, more than 2 million children bought comics books each month breathlessly following the adventures of Roy and his Palomino, Trigger. Now, for the first time, Boigraphy presents the full story of the poor boy from Cincinnati who became "The King of the Cowboys." In home movies, film outtakes and rare TV clips, we catch a glimpse of Rogers' lightning rise to stardom, from his humble beginnings as a radio singer and guitar player to his crowning as a matinee idol. Gallop into the bygone world of a favorite American hero.
Willie Nelson
Here's Willie Nelson's official, authorized biography! "Willie Nelson: My Life" is the close-up portrait of America's favorite singer/songwriter, from the days he sold one of his early hits, Family Bible, for $50 to buy milk for his children through his long struggle to superstardom. Included are frank and sometimes humorous interviews with Willie and his friends Ray Charles (who duets with Wilie on the song "Seven Spanish Angels"), Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, Sydney Pollack, Gary Busey, Mel Tillis, Ray Price, Jerry Jeff Walker and others.
Patsy Cline: Remembering Patsy
Patsy Cline died in a plane crash on March 5, 1963. Now, her musical legacy lives on in Remembering Patsy. This heartfelt celebration features 17 great Patsy Cline songs, and 10 rare television appearances, recently discovered and never before seen on video. You'll meet Patsy through her intimate home movies, her personal letters, as read by Arista recording artist Michele Wright, and the fond reminiscences of Patsy's husband, Charlie Dick, and Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Mel Tillis, Roy Clark, Eddy Arnold, Bill Anderson and Jan Howard. A new generation of stars including Trisha Yearwood, k.d. lang, Ronna Reeves, Lisa Stewart, and Marsha Thorntorn, add insight into Patsy's influence and proof positive that Patsy Cline does live on in her music.
W.C. Fields: Behind the Laughter
The program traces his life story, starting from his difficult childhood and runaway youth to his rise as a Vaudeville juggling sensation, Broadway star, and ultimately, a legendary Paramount Pictures leading man. The feature comprehensively covers his brilliant career milestones while directly confronting his internal struggles, including his notorious, self-destructive battles with severe alcoholism.
Eleanor Roosevelt: A Restless Spirit
One of this century's most respected and admired figures, she was a humanitarian who transformed the place of women in society, and in the White House. Eleanor Roosevelt created the tradition of the activist First Lady. A pioneer among Presidents' wives, she formed a staff, held press conferences, and defined an agenda beyond that of homemaker. She fought for Civil Rights, for women and the oppressed. Yet this towering public figure was also an orphan whose family was destroyed by alcoholism, the unhappy wife of a philandering husband, and a passionate friend. Experts and scholars finally succeed in connecting her public and private lives in this unique and intimate portrait. Revisit the complete, inspiring life story of Eleanor Roosevelt, champion of freedom and human dignity.
The Babe: The Story of Babe Ruth
He is perhaps the greatest sports hero in American history. George Herman “Babe” Ruth, Jr., was more than just a ballplayer—he was a beloved public figure whose popularity at one time seemed to transcend that of baseball itself. Profane and earthy, “The Babe” had a warmth of spirit about him that both electrified and inspired the nation. In his lifetime, he set several Major League records—the most notable of which took place in 1927 when he hit a record-breaking 60 home runs in a single season. From his early childhood in Baltimore to the infamous 1919 sale by the Boston Red Sox to his glory years with the New York Yankees, Biography takes an in-depth look at the immortal slugger who swatted his way into the hearts of baseball fans forever.
Pope John Paul II: Statesman of Faith
Pope John Paul II stood as the most popular pontiff in history, a spiritual compass to almost a billion Catholics worldwide, and a powerful symbol of peace to countless others. Considered an outsider choice for the papacy in 1978, Karol Jozef Wojtyla led over 16.7 million people in worship, met nearly 700 heads of state, survived an assassination attempt, and helped facilitate the end of Communism in the Soviet Union. With interviews of childhood friends, colleagues, and Vatican officials, this is the complete story of Pope John Paul II’s remarkable life. From his carefree youth in Poland to his human rights activism, to his late struggles with Parkinson’s Disease, the compassion and inspiration of the most traveled Pope in history is portrayed in its entirety. Join Biography in a touching memorial to one of the world’s great icons of peace, His Holiness, Pope John Paul II.
Bette Davis: If Looks Could Kill
She created a new kind of screen heroine, a liberated woman in a world dominated by men, and rose to be recognized as "first lady of the American screen." More bold than beautiful, more brazen than beguiling, Bette Davis starred in classics like Jezebel and All About Eve. She won two Academy Awards, was nominated for 10 more, and earned the adulation of generations of movie fans. Equally independent off-screen, her battles with studio brass were legendary. Here is her story, from her childhood and her first triumphs in Hollywood, to her ascension, eclipse, and ultimate return to unprecedented acclaim. Share the magical memories of one of the most inspiring and electrifying women ever to light up the silver screen.
Gilda Radner: In Her Own Words
She was the first person cast on Saturday Night Live, and arguably the most beloved. Her memorable characters—helped establish the show as a cultural phenomenon and earned her an Emmy Award. But behind the laughs, Gilda Radner's life was a roller coaster of emotional highs and lows. In this intimate, feature-length profile, Biography looks at the woman behind the characters. Through rare home movies, exclusive clips, and interviews with those who knew her best—including Lorne Michaels, Laraine Newman, and her husband, Gene Wilder—telling her story using her own voice, drawn from the audio tapes she recorded for her bestselling autobiography, It's Always Something. From her childhood struggles with weight and the loss of her father, to the dizzying heights of late-night stardom and her brave, final battle with ovarian cancer, this is the definitive, moving portrait of a comedy legend.
Benjamin Franklin: Citizen of the World
He was America's ambassador to the world, a unique individual who came to symbolize the inventiveness and industriousness of an entire nation. Benjamin Franklin's fascinating and diverse accomplishments defined him as a Renaissance man who will be forever enshrined in America's pantheon of heroes. He discovered electricity, invented the fuel-efficient Franklin Stove, and authored the still popular Poor Richard's Almanac. Most importantly, he offered wise leadership as a member of the continental Congress and ambassador to France during a young land's tumultuous drive toward freedom. The astounding story of one of the most unique, colorful and captivating figures in American history is told here through expert commentary, archival material, and Franklin's own writings.
Mike Tyson: Fallen Champ
He came from the streets of Brooklyn and went on to dominate the heavyweight boxing world like no one since Muhammad Ali. In this in-depth program, Biography interviews Mike Tyson’s childhood friends, members of his boxing camp, and various sports journalists to paint the portrait of a man whose battles with personal demons dealt him some of worst blows of his life. See footage of the young fighter before he was famous, and get an inside look at some of his career highlights. Trace the champion’s tumultuous life out of the ring: from the street fight with Mitch “Blood” Green and his troubled marriage to Robin Givens to the 1992 rape conviction that destroyed all he had. Mike Tyson is the tragic saga of the championship boxer whose signature aggression proved both a blessing and a curse.
Michelangelo: Artist and Man
Examine the broad canvas of Michelangelo's life and legacy to probe the very soul of the artist who was recognized as a genius in his own lifetime.
Edgar Allan Poe: The Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe
Descend into the dark world and tragic life of Edgar Allan Poe, the melancholy author who is the uncontested master of the macabre, and hear excerpts from his famous works. A genius whose gloomy nature made his own life as tragic as one of his strange tales, Poe's haunting poems and chilling stories established him as one of the most important men of American letters. But behind his popularity and artistic success was a personal life defined by broken hopes and failure. This extraordinary program tells Poe's complete story, from the death of his parents when he was three to his tragic collapse on the street at age 40. Dramatic readings recall the devastation of his broken engagement and the loss of his child bride. And experts explore the bouts of depression and addiction that tormented the man and gave birth to his dark and brilliant art. Biography takes an intimate look at one of literature's most complex and fascinating figures.
Cleopatra: Destiny's Queen
Ancient art and period accounts, along with commentary from the world's leading Egyptologists brings the fabled story of Cleopatra to life. Delve into the fascinating life of the most powerful woman in the world, circa 50 BC. Discover the passion of this queen and witness the scandals that shaped the Roman Empire.
Van Cliburn: Concert Pianist
Acclaimed concert pianist Van Cliburn opens up to documentary filmmakers in this release that offers an intimate look at Cliburn's life and career presented through a collection of interviews with the pianist himself as well as those who know him best. Performance footage not previously broadcast or commercially available offers something new for Cliburn fans who think they've seen it all, and revealing conversations with such contemporaries as Marilyn Horne, Leontyne Price, and others offer a look at the side of Cliburn rarely seen by the public. An accompanying audio compact disc offers complete performances of songs heard in the documentary.
Admiral William 'Bull' Halsey
In the darkest days of World War II, he exhorted his troops to "Hit hard. Hit fast. Hit often." Once the American Navy was ready to fight, he oversaw some of the greatest victories in its history. From his time commanding destroyers in World War I through his promotion to Admiral of the Fleet in 1945, this is the story of the man whose leadership inspired all those who fought with him and commanded respect from his enemies. In countless interviews, the men who served under the "Bull" recall the bluster, bravado and tactical skill of the legendary admiral. BIOGRAPHY presents the stirring life of a legendary warrior, a man whose legacy is defined in the minds and hearts of those who served him. In gatherings of WWII sailors to this day, the proudest of all are those who answer the traditional question "What ship were you on?" by saying, simply, "I was with Halsey."
FDR: The War Years
He was weak, frail, unable to walk, yet he marched the nation to victory in the greatest conflict in world history. Much of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's greatness rests on his remarkable leadership in World War II. Here is the incredible behind-the- scenes chronicle of those turbulent years, beginning with FDR's election to an unprecedented third term. See his battles with isolationists, witness the attack on Pearl Harbor and hear the speeches that stirred the entire world. Learn the details of his secret talks with Churchill and the Yalta Conference, and join the nation as it mourned a leader who passed away when victory lay at hand. Here is the epic story of the monumental statesman who guided America through the darkest years in modern world history.
Hirohito
He was the last Japanese ruler to uphold the Shinto idea of imperial divinity. His rule saw his nation transformed from an ancient society to a modern powerhouse and ravaged by war. Emperor Hirohito ruled for over 60 years. He led his nation into a devastating war, but oversaw its rebirth as well. BIOGRAPHY traces the long life of this remarkable figure through expert interviews and extensive archival footage. Follow the young prince to Europe in his 1921 the first Japanese prince to leave his homeland, and see footage of his coronation as emperor and proclamation of divinity in 1926. Trace the elements that led his nation into war, and learn how he eventually accepted defeat and allowed his beloved nation to be steered toward the future. And see remarkable interviews with confidantes and those who knew him. Biography explores the life of the emperor whose dramatic life mirrored the transformation of his nation.
Clint Eastwood: The Man from Malpaso
A look at the life and career of actor/director Clint Eastwood, including scenes from his past film and television work and interviews with friends, fellow actors and crew members who have worked with him over the years.
Santa Claus
He breaks into houses uninvited—yet he comes to give. Almost as old as Christianity itself, Santa Claus is one of history’s most beloved figures, one who has symbolized the magic, enchantment, and unquestioning belief of childhood. Though derived from the doctrines of various religions, Santa Claus symbolizes the secular spirit of generosity. Santa Claus embarks on a journey through history to reveal the roots of Father Christmas, from the Roman Befana to the Germanic Berchte and Knecht Ruprecht, from Saint Nicholas to Père Noël, and expose the historicity and magic of this jolly figure. Fascinating interviews with historians and experts—including Tim Allen, star of The Santa Clause—illuminate his extraordinary legacy. Join Biography in uncovering the real history of this timeless character, one of the most enduring and charming figures ever.
Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop
For over 40 years, ventriloquist Shari Lewis and her sassy hand puppet Lamb Chop were the most beloved team in children's television. Together with her other puppets Charlie Horse and Hush Puppy, Shari raised three generations of kids and struggled to stay relevant in an industry that was constantly changing. In this audiobook, co-written and recorded by Shari's daughter Mallory Lewis (who now performs with Lamb Chop) and producer-biographer Nat Segaloff, you'll hear how Shari survived using sheer will and talent, how she re-invented herself to meet new challenges, and the never-before-told story of the origin of Lamb Chop.
Stooges: The Men Behind the Mayhem
For six decades, the Three Stooges ran amuck in a riotous frenzy of eye-poking, ear-slapping, kicks, jabs, punches and frying pans to the cranium. Now Laughsmith Entertainment and A&E offer fans of the Moronic Maestros a chance to relive the Golden Age of Stoogery. Through rare recordings, exclusive interviews and outtakes of behind-the-scenes antics, "Stooges: The Men behind the Mayhem" tells the pure, uncensored Stooge story--from the early vaudeville years with Shemp and Ted Healy, through the golden years at Columbia Pictures with Curly, to the final feature films with Curly Joe DeRita, "the last Stooge." Whether you're fascinated by the unrestrained id, or just enjoy the good, clean humor of pliers applied to the nose, you'll find something to love in this in-depth look at America's most beloved madcaps The Three Stooges!
FDR: Years of Crisis
He was one of the fastest-rising politicians in the country when he was suddenly stricken with polio. Although the debilitating disease robbed him of the power to walk, Franklin Delano Roosevelt refused to succumb to despair. Join Biography for the remarkable story of FDR's decade-long battle with polio and his quest to return to political prominence. Biographers and historians describe his ambitious journey, from his rehabilitating bid for governor of New York to his rivalry with a fellow politician who claimed that FDR would be "dead within the year," unknowingly fueling FDR's mission. Unique footage includes excerpts from the 1932 Democratic nomination speech that re-established his place in the party and paved his way to the presidency. FDR: Years of Crisis offers an intimate glimpse into the life of one of America's most extraordinary men.
Andrew Carnegie: Prince of Steel
Traces the life of Andrew Carnegie, who went from being a poor Scottish immigrant to a fabled man of wealth. Carnegie built a fortune by amassing stock in the growth industries of trains and steel, then started sharing it. Today libraries, concert halls, and universities across the United States have benefited from his philanthropy.
Andrew Jackson: A Man for the People
A portrait of "Old Hickory," President Andrew Jackson (1767-1845), from his Tennessee law days through his military career to his tenure as the seventh U.S. President. Included: interviews with historians. Monte Markham is the narrator.