Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise

Louis Gossett Jr. shares a story about an inspiring woman in his life: his great-grandmother. Join us in celebrating the powerful, creative and innovative women in our lives. Inspiring Woman is a year-long online campaign based on themes central to Dr. Angelou’s life: artistic expression, academic success, active community engagement and acceptance of difference.

This unprecedented film celebrates Dr. Maya Angelou by weaving her words with rare and intimate archival photographs and videos, which paint hidden moments of her exuberant life during some of America’s most defining moments. From her upbringing in the Depression-era South to her work with Malcolm X in Ghana, the film takes us on an incredible journey through the life of a true American icon.

Maya Angelou, Lou Gossett Jr., and Guy Johnson speak about James Baldwin.

Maya Angelou speaks about her work as a teacher and what inspired her to give back to students.

Rita Coburn-Whack, co-director of American Masters - Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise, originally introduced Maya Angelou and Common, who continued to work together and collaborate as writers and artists.

Maya Angelou transitioned from dancing to singing early in her career, focusing on Calypso-style music while working in the Bay Area.

Dr. Maya Angelou started her career in singing and dancing and eventually signed a contract with Porgy and Bess in order to further her career. Learn more about her time with the company in this video.

John Singleton shares why he believes Dr. Angelou's story is so important in this behind-the-scenes footage from "American Masters - Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise."

Learn how Norman Lear struck up a friendship with Dr. Maya Angelou. In this video, he shares his respect for Dr. Angelou's character and work, and talks about the time his family spent with her.

Learn how Dr. Maya Angelou began writing and reading poetry as a child.

Without realizing it, Maya Angelou met Tupac Shakur, and the two ended up sharing a powerful moment together.

As a single mother, Maya Angelou struggled to provide for her son. An opportunity to perform with Pearl Bailey would've meant a regular income and less time on the road, but unfortunately Maya was not given the job.