Ep 9. Inventing David Geffen

In American Masters season 25 episode 9, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of one of the most successful and powerful entertainment moguls in history - David Geffen. Geffen's influence on the music and film industries is unparalleled, and this episode chronicles his rise to fame, the struggles he faced along the way, and his lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

The episode begins by exploring Geffen's early years, growing up in Brooklyn and dreaming of a life in show business. Viewers are treated to rare footage and photos from Geffen's childhood, and learn about his early struggles as a young gay man trying to find his place in the world. From there, the episode jumps forward to the 1960s, when Geffen began his career as a talent agent in New York City.

As Geffen's talent agency began to gain traction, he quickly became known as a shrewd negotiator and a master at finding and promoting new talent. The episode delves into Geffen's early successes, including his work with legendary rock band The Eagles and the creation of his own record label, Asylum Records. Viewers also get a taste of Geffen's larger-than-life personality and his ability to make deals happen, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

But Geffen's rise to the top was not without its challenges. The episode explores his strained relationships with some of his biggest clients, including Joni Mitchell and Neil Young, as well as his struggles to come to terms with his sexuality and the discrimination he faced as a gay man in the entertainment industry. Despite the obstacles he faced, Geffen remained determined to succeed, and his relentless drive and ambition propelled him to even greater heights.

As the episode progresses, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at some of Geffen's biggest accomplishments, including his role in launching the careers of artists like Cher, Bob Dylan, and Tom Waits. But perhaps Geffen's biggest achievement was the creation of his own movie studio, which produced iconic films like Risky Business, Beetlejuice, and Forrest Gump.

Throughout the episode, viewers also get insight into Geffen's personal life, including his relationships with famous friends like Cher, Joni Mitchell, and Warren Beatty. We see Geffen as a man who is fiercely loyal to those he cares about, and who is incredibly generous with his time and resources. But we also see the toll that success can take on a person, as Geffen confronts the reality of his own mortality and reflects on the impact he has had on the entertainment industry.

Overall, Inventing David Geffen is a fascinating look at one of the most influential figures in American entertainment history. From his early days as a young dreamer to his eventual success as a mogul and philanthropist, David Geffen's story is one that will captivate viewers and inspire them to dream big and never give up on their dreams. Whether you're a fan of music, movies, or simply great storytelling, this episode of American Masters is not to be missed.