American Masters

When Hazel Scott was accused of communist ties

When Hazel Scott's name appeared in "Red Channels," a book by former FBI agents accusing entertainers of affiliations with communism, she was determined to clear her name. Before the House Un-American Activities Committee, Scott wrote a 50-page statement declaring her innocence, but HUAC had already made up their minds about her.

When Hazel Scott was accused of communist ties

4m 18s

  • The Disappearance of Miss Scott: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Disappearance of Miss Scott

    S39 E1 - 1h 23m

    Learn about jazz virtuoso and screen superstar Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own television show. An early civil rights pioneer, she faced down the Red Scare at the risk of losing her career and was a champion for equality. The film features interviews with Mickey Guyton, Tracie Thoms, Amanda Seales, and Sheryl Lee Ralph as the voice of Hazel Scott.

  • The Disappearance of Miss Scott [Extended Audio Description + OC]: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Disappearance of Miss Scott [Extended Audio Description + OC]

    1h 34m

    This version contains extended audio description and large open captions. Learn about jazz virtuoso and screen superstar Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own television show. An early civil rights pioneer, she faced down the Red Scare at the risk of losing her career and was a champion for equality.

  • The Disappearance of Miss Scott [ASL]: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Disappearance of Miss Scott [ASL]

    1h 23m

    This version contains on-screen ASL interpretation. Learn about jazz virtuoso and screen superstar Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own television show. An early civil rights pioneer, she faced down the Red Scare at the risk of losing her career and was a champion for equality.

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