He transcended conventional stardom to earn a place as a true American icon. His 250 films shaped a vision of American manhood. Twenty years after his death, John Wayne remains one of the most influential actors in history. The rugged, straight-shooting characters he portrayed have become a symbol of the American spirit. Born Marion Michael Morrison in Iowa, he was introduced to Hollywood as an undergraduate at USC, where he worked as a set laborer on the Fox lot. Soon he was on camera, appearing in numerous films before landing his breakthrough role in the 1939 John Ford classic, Stagecoach. John Wayne chronicles the life and career of this Hollywood giant through generous clips and intimate interviews with friends, family and colleagues, including Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. and Charlton Heston. Discover how he was in more than 200 movies into his career before he finally won an Oscar and see excerpts from his poignant final role in The Shootist.

John Wayne: American Legend

Peter Graves

Jack Perkins

P.T. Barnum: The Greatest Showman on Earth

Jim Jones: Journey into Madness

For over a year, he held a city hostage to fear. When he was finally caught, the nation was shocked to discover that the "face of terror" was a cherubic postal worker who smiled sweetly for the camera. David Berkowitz claimed the lives of six people in a killing spree that resulted in the largest manhunt in the history of New York. Once apprehended, he confessed to all the crimes and asked the judge to put him away forever so he would not kill again. In this comprehensive portrait, reporters and detectives who worked on the case, the parents of victims, a prosecutor and a former FBI profiler relive the case that galvanized a nation. Psychologists explore the many frustrations and disappointments that led Berkowitz to kill, and in a gripping interview, Berkowitz himself talks about his crimes and jailhouse transformation into the "Son of Hope." Today, he ministers to other prisoners and born-again Christians all over the world in hopes of restoring some meaning to his shattered life.

David Berkowitz: Son of Sam

For 25 years Mao Zedong ruled one quarter of the world's population. This is the extraordinary story of a farmer's son who became a God in his life time but in private never shook off his peasant roots; a man who presided over one of the most radical experiments in social reform ever seen in human history but who will be remembered as one of the bloodiest dictators of the twentieth century. This program--told through the accounts of those who have met and studied him, loved and loathed him--includes archive film and pictures going back to the very earliest days of Mao's life, as well as unique film of China at the turn of the century and during key episodes in Mao's communist revolution. It includes harrowing and eye-witness accounts of such momentous events as the cultural revolution, the Great Leap Forward and the most severe man-made famine ever recorded.

Mao Tse Tung: China's Peasant Emperor

She was an uncommon heroine, a legendary aviator, and the focus of one of the greatest mysteries of all time. A daredevil of unimaginable proportions, Amelia Earhart was destined to make her mark on history. Even as she was wowing the world by annihilating existing aviation records, her unconventional short hair, pants, and leather jacket had already made her an undisputed icon. Her mysterious disappearance while attempting to fly around the world has long been at the center of great debate. What really happened to one of the world s most promising aviators? Drawing on extensive archival footage, interviews, and newly discovered evidence, Biography examines Earhart s dramatic story, providing an unforgettable look at the life and legend of the courageous and groundbreaking aviator.

Amelia Earhart: Queen of the Air

Trace the remarkable arc of Lansbury’s life and career, highlighting how she navigated early hardship, Hollywood typecasting, and later triumphs on stage and television. The episode follows her journey from wartime London to America, where she worked in a Los Angeles department store before earning her breakthrough role in Gaslight, leading to her first Oscar nomination. It explores her evolution from acclaimed film actress to Broadway powerhouse and finally beloved TV icon through Murder, She Wrote. Interviews with colleagues such as Carol Channing, Van Johnson, and Tom Bosley, along with family insights, illuminate how Lansbury balanced personal challenges with professional reinvention, ultimately becoming one of America’s most cherished performers.

Angela Lansbury: A Balancing Act

Her Diary is one of the most widely read books in the world. Yet the time she spent hiding from the Nazis is but one chapter in her remarkable life. Anne Frank has become an international symbol of the horror and hatred of the Nazi regime--an innocent, intelligent young girl swept up by their voracious killing machine. The document she left behind (one of a very few things not taken when the German soldiers raided the "secret annex" of the Frank home in Amsterdam) is a remarkable testament to the strength of the human spirit under the worst of conditions. In this moving biography, the details of Anne's life outside the attic are revealed. From the carefree days of her early childhood in Germany to the harrowing months she spent at Bergen-Belsen before succumbing to typhus, scholars and survivors tell what they know of the young girl who has become a worldwide icon. The story of her life is a tragedy, but the enduring message is one of hope and tolerance that will never die.

Anne Frank: The Life of a Young Girl

This musical genius was tormented by loneliness, heartbreak and the loss of his hearing. Yet his talent transcended his anguish and the music he created has endured throughout time. Beethoven gave his first public concert at age seven, performed for Mozart at sixteen, was the toast of Vienna by his twenties—in complete despair by the age of thirty‑two, the victim of approaching deafness. From the turmoil of his personal life, which included an abusive father, countless failed romances and violent mood swings, Beethoven composed nine brilliant symphonies, dramatic sonatas and thunderous choral music. Noted musicians such as Isaac Stern and Kurt Masur examine the great works that defined his genius, the fascinating historical events that shaped his art and the inner struggle of the man himself. Highlighted by incomparable music, insightful narration and extraordinary period artwork, the life and legacy of Beethoven come to life as never before.

Beethoven: The Sound and the Fury

Explore the extraordinary life of Harland Sanders, the man behind Kentucky Fried Chicken, whose white suit and string tie became symbols of entrepreneurial success. The episode traces his humble beginnings in rural Indiana, early struggles through a series of odd jobs, and his eventual discovery of a secret blend of herbs and spices that revolutionized fast food. Through interviews with family, business associates, and historians, Biography explores how Sanders transformed a roadside café into a global empire, franchising his recipe and persona into one of the world’s most recognizable brands. It also delves into his relentless drive, perfectionism, and late-in-life fame, revealing a complex figure who mixed charm with stubborn determination. This portrait captures how Colonel Sanders turned adversity into opportunity, leaving behind a legacy that forever changed the way America eats.

Colonel Sanders: America's Chicken King

Dwight D. Eisenhower lived a life marked by extraordinary success. A West Point graduate whose military know-how catapulted him through the U.S. Army ranks, Eisenhower's steadfast leadership helped turn the tide of World War II. His intellect and skillful diplomacy later paved the way to the White House where he served two productive terms as president. In his role as commander-in-chief, Eisenhower became a well-respected and dedicated advocate for peace and human rights throughout the world. In this compelling profile, friends, family, colleagues, and noted historians shed light on one of the nation's greatest heroes. Rare footage reveals the defining moments of Eisenhower's life-from his military victories to his presidential inauguration. Dwight D. Eisenhower: Commander-in-Chief is the authoritative program about the life and legacy of this remarkable American icon.

Dwight D. Eisenhower: Commander-in-Chief

Ernest Hemingway's novels rank among the most influential and celebrated in history, while his life remains an obscure image shrouded in myth. In this feature-length portrait narrated by the author's granddaughter, Mariel Hemingway, Biography examines the remarkable life story of this legendary Nobel laureate. It is a fascinating trip through his world from the hospital in Milan where he first found love to the resort community in the Midwest where he took his own life. Rare footage of Hemingway at rest, excerpts from his letters and unpublished works, and the recollections of those who knew him best shed light on his extraordinary journey. From the battlefields of Europe to the decks of Key West, join Biography for a compelling voyage through the life and legacy of one of the 20th century's most masterful writers.

Ernest Hemingway: Wrestling With Life

Dive into the turbulent, high‑octane life of America’s most famous daredevil, tracing how Robert “Evel” Knievel transformed himself from a restless Montana kid into a cultural icon defined by risk, spectacle and controversy. The episode follows his rise through early stunt shows, his mastery of motorcycle jumps, and the creation of a larger‑than‑life persona that captivated millions. It also confronts the darker edges of his story — brushes with the law, volatile relationships, financial troubles and the physical toll of countless crashes. Through interviews with family, friends, and fellow performers, Biography paints a vivid portrait of a man driven by bravado, ambition and a need to push past every limit. Ultimately, the episode reveals Knievel as both showman and survivor, a figure whose fearless stunts and fiery spirit left an indelible mark on American pop culture.

Evel Knievel: Hell on Wheels

He made the find of the 20th century and discovered the most spectacular treasure the world had ever seen. For over 30 years, Howard Carter searched the Egyptian desert, seeking the ultimate prize. Then, in November 1922, with his money, luck, and time running out, he discovered the golden tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun. Yet, all that glittered was not gold for the acclaimed archaeologist. See how the treasure brought with it heartbreak, confrontation, and acrimony that would plague him forever.

Howard Carter: Triumph and Treasure

She won universal admiration for her dignity and control in the hours and days after her husband’s assassination. The years that followed only confirmed her elegance and poise. As First Lady, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy won the hearts of the American people with her style, beauty, taste, and glamour. As a widow, she became the object of their fascination. Biography follows her life from the terrible day in Dallas until her own death in 1994. See how her marriage to Aristotle Onassis surprised the nation, and how she finally found peace of mind after his death, working as an editor. Rare footage captures intimate moments with her children, John Jr. and Caroline, who were the focus of her life and reveals the passions and humor of this private icon. Biography presents the story of a woman who lived with dignity and whose elegant memory continues to capture our hearts and imaginations.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis: In a Class of Her Own

Explore the chilling rise and tragic downfall of the charismatic yet deeply disturbed leader of the Peoples Temple. The episode traces Jones’s evolution from a passionate preacher advocating racial equality and social justice in 1950s Indiana to the manipulative cult figure who led hundreds to their deaths in Jonestown, Guyana. Through interviews with survivors, former followers, and investigators, Biography examines how his charm, paranoia, and hunger for control turned faith into fanaticism. Archival footage and recordings reveal the psychological grip Jones held over his congregation and the escalating delusions that culminated in the 1978 mass suicide. The program offers a haunting portrait of a man whose descent into madness destroyed everything he built, serving as a sobering reminder of the dangers of blind devotion and unchecked power.

Explore the dazzling rise of the man who reshaped American entertainment through imagination, audacity, and relentless promotion. The episode traces Barnum’s early years as a hustling entrepreneur, his knack for spectacle, and his creation of curiosities like the Feejee Mermaid and General Tom Thumb that drew massive crowds. Biography explores how Barnum blended showmanship with shrewd business instincts, ultimately building the world‑famous circus that bore his name. Interviews with historians and rare archival material reveal both his genius for publicity and the controversies surrounding his methods. The program paints a vivid portrait of a visionary who understood the public’s appetite for wonder and turned it into a global phenomenon, securing his legacy as the father of modern popular entertainment.

From Beijing to Buenos Aires, McDonald’s is the most well‑known brand in the world—in fact, the Golden Arches are more recognizable than the Christian cross. A Chicago entrepreneur who began by selling paper cups, Ray Kroc is fast food’s founding father. As a child, a phrenologist predicted Ray would work in the food‑service industry. Uncannily, he was right. Ray Kroc: Fast Food McMillionaire traces Kroc’s rise from his days distributing the “Multimixer” to his creation of a global empire. Interviews with friends, family, and experts, including the author of McDonald’s: Behind the Arches, and rare archival footage exhibit the ambition and perfectionism that propelled Ray to the top. Gain insight into the real Ray—from his relationship with Dick and Mac McDonald to his eventual ownership of the San Diego Padres. Biography presents an in‑depth profile of Ray Kroc, entrepreneur and fast‑food extraordinaire.

Ray Kroc: Fast Food McMillionaire

He was the favorite angel who dared disobey God. Cast out from Heaven, he became mankind's tormentor, vowing to destroy the creation of his former master. Satan, Lucifer, the Devil: by any name, he is the symbol of evil, the bringer of darkness who lurks just around the corner—ready to plunge deep into our souls. From the Biblical tale of the fall to stories of those who believe they have crossed his path, Biography takes a chilling journey through the "life" of Satan. Scholars examine the way Satan has been portrayed throughout the centuries, forever embodying the greatest fears of mankind. And in art from classic paintings and ancient etchings to modern movies, see the many faces that we have applied to this timeless tormentor, and explore what these images tell us of him and ourselves. Join Biography for the terrifying tale of the evil creature that has hunted humans since the beginning of time.

Satan: Prince of Darkness

Delve into the haunting brilliance and tragic life of one of history’s most influential artists. The episode traces Van Gogh’s journey from a restless preacher’s son in the Netherlands to a visionary painter whose bold colors and emotional intensity redefined modern art. Through letters to his brother Theo, Biography reveals the depth of his inner turmoil—his battles with loneliness, poverty, and mental illness—and how these struggles fueled his creative fire. Art historians and biographers examine masterpieces like Starry Night and Sunflowers, exploring how his unique brushwork captured the beauty and anguish of the human spirit. The program also recounts his brief but explosive years in Arles, his friendship with Gauguin, and the tragic end that came too soon. Ultimately, it portrays Van Gogh as a man whose suffering gave rise to transcendent art, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire the world.

Vincent Van Gogh: A Stroke of Genius

Trace the dramatic life of the aviator who became an international hero overnight after completing the first solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic in 1927. The episode explores Lindbergh’s rise from a young barnstormer to a symbol of American daring, and the overwhelming fame that followed his historic achievement. Biography also confronts the profound tragedies and controversies that shaped his later years, including the kidnapping and death of his son, the intense media scrutiny that drove him into seclusion, and his polarizing political views before World War II. Through archival footage, interviews, and personal writings, the program paints a nuanced portrait of a man both celebrated and criticized, revealing how Lindbergh’s quest for independence and innovation defined his legacy against the shifting winds of public opinion.

Charles Lindbergh: Against the Wind

Fred Gwynne: More than a Munster offers a warm, revealing portrait of the actor whose towering frame and gentle charm made Herman Munster unforgettable — yet whose career stretched far beyond the famous makeup. The episode traces Gwynne’s early life, his Harvard years, and his beginnings as a cartoonist and writer before he found success on Broadway and television. Biography explores how The Munsters brought him national fame but also typecasting that he struggled to overcome. Interviews with colleagues, friends, and family highlight his versatility, from dramatic roles in films like The Cotton Club and My Cousin Vinny to his acclaimed work as an illustrator and author of children’s books. The program paints a thoughtful picture of a private, multi‑talented man who quietly built a rich artistic legacy, proving he was far more than the lovable monster millions adored.

Fred Gwynne: More than a Munster

Examine the horrifying double life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers, presenting his crimes through a factual, victim‑centered lens. The episode traces how Gacy cultivated an image of a friendly suburban contractor and community volunteer — even performing as “Pogo the Clown” — while secretly committing acts of devastating violence against young men and boys. Through interviews with investigators, neighbors, and surviving family members, Biography details the painstaking police work that uncovered the truth beneath Gacy’s façade, leading to the discovery of dozens of victims buried beneath his home. Archival footage and case records reveal how his charm masked deep cruelty, and how his arrest shocked the nation. The program offers a sober, unsettling portrait of a predator who hid in plain sight, emphasizing the enduring impact on victims’ families and the community he terrorized.

John Wayne Gacy: A Monster in Disguise

For 24 years, he ruled his country with an iron hand. But the waves of freedom that swept Europe in 1989 cost him his life. Nicolae Ceausescu will be remembered as much for his sudden death as his long tenure as dictator of Rumania. Through extensive archival footage and interviews with those who served him, Biography chronicles the rise and fall of the man who was utterly consumed with a desire to be the best. See how, together with his wife, he fashioned an image of perfection for himself--and how he eliminated any who dared challenge it. Former communist activists share their memories of the young man who would become a despot, while Richard Nixon (in an interview conducted shortly before his death) talks about his dealings with the inflexible leader. And relive the events that finally toppled his regime and turned the people against him. From his childhood in rural Rumania to his execution by firing squad, this is the story of one of the most infamous tyrants of the 20th century.

Nicolae Ceausescu: The Unrepentant Tyrant

Explore the remarkable family behind America’s most iconic luxury brand, tracing how their name became synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless elegance. The episode follows founder Charles Lewis Tiffany as he transforms a modest New York stationery and fancy‑goods store into a world‑renowned jewelry empire, celebrated for its diamonds, silverwork, and the famous Tiffany Blue. Biography highlights the creative brilliance of his son, Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose stained‑glass masterpieces and decorative arts helped define the Art Nouveau movement. Through archival images, expert commentary, and family recollections, the program reveals how the Tiffanys blended artistry with business acumen, setting standards that shaped American design. Ultimately, the episode portrays a dynasty whose pursuit of beauty and quality left an enduring mark on both fine jewelry and the broader cultural imagination.

The Tiffanys: Mark of Excellence

Throughout his legendary partnership with Jerry Lewis and years of solo stardom, his laid‑back charm made everything look easy. Dean Martin was one of America’s greatest celebrities for more than 50 years. Discovered by Jerry Lewis in Atlantic City, the young singer joined the madcap comedian to create one of the most famous entertainment teams ever. When their tumultuous ten‑year partnership ended, Martin went on to a string of solo successes as an actor and singer. Biography presents the definitive Dean Martin story—including movies with the Rat Pack and knocking the Beatles from the top slots in the charts—drawing on rare clips and photos and candid interviews with family, friends, and co‑stars. From his early days as a card shark and prizefighter to his zenith as the highest‑paid entertainer in the world, Dean Martin profiles a truly unforgettable man.

Dean Martin: Everybody Loves Somebody

Their incredible exploits earned them a place in American legend. Their true fate remains one of the great mysteries of the Old West. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were a different breed of outlaw. In the waning days of the Old West, they blazed a trail of shoot-outs and hold-ups that earned them widespread notoriety. But while other outlaws bragged of their accomplishments and staked their claim as the meanest, toughest and fastest, Butch only claimed that he was the smartest, funniest and most popular! And the Sundance Kid was famed mostly as a ladies' man. Their incredible story comes to life here through period accounts, rare photos and interviews with experts. Relive their exploits and fabled escape from justice that still has historians confounded today. Biography traces the remarkable career and legendary flight of the Old West's most intriguing outlaws.

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

The episode examines the mysterious life and enduring legacy of Nostradamus, the 16th‑century French physician and astrologer whose cryptic prophecies have fascinated—and frightened—generations. It traces his rise from plague doctor and scholar to author of Les Prophéties, the collection of verses that many believe foretold wars, revolutions, and natural disasters. The program explores the historical context of his writings, the symbolism behind his predictions, and the centuries‑long debate over their accuracy. Through expert analysis, dramatizations, and archival imagery, Biography separates fact from legend, revealing a man driven by curiosity, intellect, and a deep sense of destiny. Nostradamus emerges as both visionary and enigma—a figure whose haunting words continue to echo through history’s most turbulent moments.

Nostradamus: Prophet of Doom

Biography is a documentary television series. It was originally a half-hour filmed series produced for CBS by David Wolper from 1961 to 1964 and hosted by Mike Wallace. The A&E Network later re-ran it and has produced new episodes since 1987. The older version featured historical figures such as Helen Keller and Mark Twain, or long-dead entertainment figures such as Will Rogers or John Barrymore. The A&E series has placed the emphasis on such people as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Plácido Domingo, Freddie Mercury, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Eric Clapton, Pope John Paul II, Gene Tierney, Selena, Diego Rivera, Mao Zedong and Queen Elizabeth II, and fictional characters like The Phantom, Superman, Hamlet, Betty Boop, and Santa Claus. The program ended up profiling enough figures that in 1999, A&E spun it off into an entire network, The Biography Channel.

John Wayne: American Legend

Seasons27

Season 7 Episodes26

Cast2

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