Ep 2. Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story

Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is an episode of the documentary series American Masters, which chronicles the life and career of one of Hollywood's most fascinating and enigmatic stars. Hedy Lamarr was not only a talented actress, but also a brilliant inventor whose work paved the way for modern-day telecommunications.

The episode traces Lamarr's journey from her childhood in Austria to her rise to fame in Hollywood's Golden Age. It explores the different facets of her personality and delves into the many struggles she faced as a woman in the entertainment industry, such as being typecast as a sex symbol and enduring public scandals.

However, the episode also highlights Lamarr's lesser-known role as a inventor. Lamarr, who was fascinated by technology from a young age, worked alongside composer George Antheil to develop a groundbreaking system for wireless communication that would help torpedo US submarines evade Nazi torpedoes during World War II. Their invention paved the way for technologies we use today such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.

The episode features interviews with Lamarr's family, friends, and colleagues, as well as archival footage of the star herself. Viewers will learn about the many aspects of Lamarr's complex and fascinating life, and also be reminded of the importance of looking beyond stereotypes and assumptions to truly understand the people around us.

Overall, Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is a thought-provoking and informative tribute to an extraordinary woman who left her mark on both Hollywood and the world of science and technology. The episode serves as a reminder of the power of intellect and creativity in the face of adversity, and of the many untold stories waiting to be explored in the realm of history and popular culture.