The season finale of the Emmy nominated series "Oprah's Master Class" with multiple award-winning living legend Cicely Tyson airs Sunday, August 3 at 10:00pm ET/PT on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. Check out a sneak peek below!
Multiple award-winning actress, Cicely Tyson, is a living legend whose remarkable dedication to her life's purpose with standout roles in hit movies and on Broadway is reflected in her illustrious career. From her childhood growing up in New York City to her early days as a model and her most recognized portrayal of Kunta Kinte's mother, Binta, in the epic historical miniseries "Roots," this iconic performer decided early on that her work would be more than a job: she'd use her opportunities to help make a difference. In this rare, unprecedented first-person account, Ms. Tyson, who shows no signs of slowing down, opens up about the valuable lessons she's learned from her experiences, including: know what came before you, always put joy into work, find your calling and follow your intuition.
EXCERPT: What Makes Cicely Tyson's Skin Tingle
CICELY: When I read a script, either my skin tingles or my stomach turns. It's that simple. If my skin tingles, I know it's something I must do. If my stomach turns, I know it is something I cannot do. I have learned from every single character that I've played. Something emotionally, spiritually and psychologically true. I've never done a job just for money. I could not do anything that would not enhance humanity, especially women.
EXCERPT: Cicely Tyson on Preparing for "Roots"
CICELY: No matter where I go in the world they will say to me "Roots!" I don't know what I did; they will always say "Roots." I had been to Dahomey, Africa. I had an opportunity to get a feel of the country itself. Made lots of notes, take the dialogue. Just wanting to get to know who my forefathers were. Spent a lot of time with the women, not being aware that this was forthcoming. I met Alex Haley after he finished writing the book and we spent a lot of time together. Because, you know, all I have to do is find someone who has something to say that will enrich my life and they can't get rid of me. And so, I was given the role of Kunta Kinte's mom.
About "Oprah's Master Class"
The acclaimed, Emmy-nominated series "Oprah's Master Class" returns for its fourth season featuring unprecedented first-person insight into the brilliant minds of entertainers we love, respect and admire, with modern masters hand-picked by Oprah Winfrey for their unique impact on the world. From award-winning actors and musicians to groundbreaking journalists, "Oprah's Master Class" tells the stories you've never heard from the people you thought you knew best. This season includes Barbara Walters, Whoopi Goldberg, Tim McGraw, Lionel Richie, Robin Roberts, Vanessa Williams, Billy Bob Thornton and Sharon Stone. Co-produced by the award-winning production companies, Harpo Studios and @radical.media, the series is executive produced by Oprah Winfrey, Jon Sinclair, Jon Kamen and Justin Wilkes.
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About OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network
OWN: OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK is the first and only network named for, and inspired by, a single iconic leader. Oprah Winfrey's heart and creative instincts inform the brand - and the magnetism of the channel. Winfrey provides leadership in programming and attracts superstar talent to join her in primetime, building a global community of like-minded viewers and leading that community to connect on social media and beyond. OWN is a singular destination on cable. Depth with edge. Heart. Star power. Connection. And endless possibilities. OWN is a joint venture between Harpo, Inc. and Discovery Communications. The network debuted on January 1, 2011 and is available in 85 million homes. The venture also includes the award-winning digital platformOprah.com.
Photo Credit: © Harpo Studios, Inc.
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