Ep 3. Cary Grant: a Class Apart

Cary Grant: A Class Apart is an episode from the 18th season of American Masters. It explores the life and career of the iconic Hollywood actor, Cary Grant. The episode follows Grant's journey from his humble beginnings in Bristol, England to becoming one of the most recognizable faces and voices in Hollywood.

Using archival footage and interviews with Grant's friends and colleagues, the episode sheds light on Grant's early years, which were marked by poverty and a difficult upbringing. Despite the challenges he faced, Grant's natural charisma and talent eventually led him to a career in acting.

The episode also delves into Grant's rise to fame in Hollywood and his collaborations with some of the most influential directors and actors of the time. From his work with directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Howard Hawks to his onscreen partnerships with leading ladies like Ingrid Bergman and Katharine Hepburn, the episode explores how Grant's performances helped to define a golden era of American cinema.

In addition to his professional achievements, the episode also explores Grant's personal life. It reveals how he navigated his own insecurities and struggles with fame and how he coped with the tragic loss of his mother at a young age. The episode also touches on Grant's marriages and relationships, including his on-again, off-again romance with actress and wife-to-be Dyan Cannon.

Overall, Cary Grant: A Class Apart offers a comprehensive look at the life and legacy of one of Hollywood's most enduring stars. Through interviews with those who knew him best and expert analysis of his work, the episode showcases why Cary Grant remains a class apart in the annals of Hollywood history.