American Masters

John Singleton on having Maya Angelou as a mentor

On April 23, 2014, director John Singleton reflected upon coming to Maya Angelou for guidance while working on his film "Poetic Justice," and how Angelou influenced him and Tupac on the set of the film and in the years after. Interview conducted for "Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise" (2017), directed by Rita Coburn and Bob Hercules.

John Singleton on having Maya Angelou as a mentor

13m 33s

  • How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics

    11m 35s

    On September 19, 2007, Phyllis Diller reflected on how her comedy was a response to years of “take my wife” jokes. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

  • Paul Mooney on his career and relationship with Richard Pryor: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Paul Mooney on his career and relationship with Richard Pryor

    10m 39s

    On April 6, 2007, Paul Mooney reflected on the mechanics of stand-up comedy and his unique role as best friend to comedy’s all-time greatest, Richard Pryor. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

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