American Masters Season 3 Episode 7 Neil Simon: Not Just for Laughs

In season 3 episode 7 of American Masters, we delve into the life and career of Neil Simon, one of the greatest playwrights in American history. Despite being known for his hilarious comedic plays, this episode titled "Neil Simon: Not Just for Laughs" explores the more serious side of Simon's work and personal life.

Through interviews with family, friends, and colleagues, we gain insight into Simon's upbringing in the Bronx and how his difficult childhood influenced his writing. We also learn about his struggles with depression and insecurity, which were often masked by his witty sense of humor.

The episode then turns to Simon's prolific career, which spanned over five decades and produced numerous hits such as "Barefoot in the Park," "The Odd Couple," and "Brighton Beach Memoirs." We hear from actors who worked with Simon on these plays, including Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, who starred in the Broadway revival of "The Odd Couple."

But as much as Simon's work made audiences laugh, it also had a deeper significance. As playwright Tony Kushner puts it, "He's a writer of enormous feeling and empathy. His characters are people who are trying to love and take care of each other, and most of his plays are about people who are trying to connect, or reconnect."

This theme of connection is especially apparent in Simon's later work, including "Lost in Yonkers," which explores the relationship between two young boys and their tough-love grandmother. The play earned Simon his first Pulitzer Prize and showcased his ability to write drama just as well as comedy.

Towards the end of the episode, we hear about the challenges Simon faced in his personal life, including the death of his wife and frequent clashes with his brother Danny. Yet despite these setbacks, Simon continued to write and stay active in the theater community until his death in 2018.

Overall, "Neil Simon: Not Just for Laughs" offers a heartfelt tribute to a man who brought so much joy and humanity to the world of theater. It reminds us that even the funniest of writers can have a profound impact on our lives and leave behind a legacy that extends far beyond laughter.