American Masters

Why Cicely Tyson was selective about her acting roles

Cicely Tyson's support for civil rights came through her portrayals of Black womanhood in her film roles. As a result, she was selective in the kind of work she took on and describes here how roles that appealed to her didn't come very often.

Why Cicely Tyson was selective about her acting roles

43s

  • Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around

    S38 E6 - 52m 55s

    Discover the story behind singer Brenda Lee’s iconic songs and explore how her early fame and life of poverty shaped her artistry across pop, rock ‘n’ roll and country. Known for her Christmas classic and Billboard hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” she is still a force in music today. The film features interviews with Keith Urban, Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo and many others.

  • Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [Extended Audio Description + OC]: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [Extended Audio Description + OC]

    1h

    This version contains extended audio description and large open captions. Discover the story behind singer Brenda Lee’s iconic songs and explore how her early fame and life of poverty shaped her artistry across pop, rock ‘n’ roll and country. Known for her Christmas classic and Billboard hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” she is still a force in music today.

  • Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [ASL]: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [ASL]

    52m 55s

    This version contains on-screen ASL interpretation. Discover the story behind singer Brenda Lee’s iconic songs and explore how her early fame and life of poverty shaped her artistry across pop, rock ‘n’ roll and country. Known for her Christmas classic and Billboard hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” she is still a force in music today.

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