Ep 18. Ben Vereen: the Hard Way

Ben Vereen: The Hard Way is the 18th episode of season 1 of the popular television show, Biography. It focuses on the life and career of American actor, singer and dancer, Ben Vereen. Born in Miami, Florida in 1946, Vereen grew up in a family that was passionate about entertainment. His mother often took him to see musicals and dance performances, which sparked his interest in performing.

Despite facing various obstacles related to his race and upbringing, Vereen pursued his passion and eventually made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, starting with his breakout role in the 1972 Broadway musical Pippin. From there, he went on to star in a number of other Broadway shows, such as Jesus Christ Superstar and Wicked, as well as various films and television shows.

The episode follows Vereen's journey from his early days performing in nightclubs to his rise to fame on Broadway and beyond. It explores the challenges he faced as a young African-American performer in a predominantly white industry, and how he overcame those challenges to become one of the most respected and celebrated entertainers of his time.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to interviews with Vereen's family, friends, and colleagues, as well as rare footage of his performances. We learn about his struggles with addiction, which he overcame in the 1990s, and his ongoing dedication to mentorship and philanthropy.

The episode also delves into Vereen's personal life, including his marriages and his relationships with his children. We see how the death of his daughter affected him deeply, and how he has channeled that pain into his work with children's charities.

Overall, Ben Vereen: The Hard Way is a fascinating portrait of a man who has overcome incredible odds to become one of the most beloved performers of his generation. It celebrates his talent, his resilience, and his enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.