Masterpiece (2017)

The prestigious PBS anthology strand, presenting world-class British and American drama to audiences across the United States.

Masterpiece - Series Information

  • Original Title: Masterpiece
  • First Air Year: 2017
  • Last Air Year: 2024
  • Type: TV Series
  • Genres: Drama
  • Content Rating (US): TV-PG
  • Number of Seasons: 8
  • Number of Episodes: 149
  • Status: Returning Series
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • First Air Date: January 15, 2017 (United States - TV-PG), January 15, 2017 (India - U), January 15, 2017 (Australia - M)
  • Networks: PBS
  • Production Companies: GBH
  • Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America

Masterpiece - Plot

As of the start of broadcasting Victoria Series One in January 2017, Masterpiece Classic was no longer branded as such, but simply Masterpiece (on screen, PBS Masterpiece online and social media), and it no longer had an on-screen host.

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Masterpiece - Cast & Crew

Main Cast

  • Laura Linney

Masterpiece - FAQs

What is Masterpiece on PBS about?

Masterpiece is a long-running PBS anthology series that presents high-quality British and American dramatic productions. It serves as an umbrella brand for acclaimed miniseries, adaptations, and standalone dramas, bringing award-winning storytelling — from period pieces to contemporary thrillers — to American audiences.

When did Masterpiece first air on PBS?

In its current form, Masterpiece began airing on January 15, 2017, when it dropped the “Masterpiece Classic” branding and relaunched simply as Masterpiece. The broader PBS Masterpiece strand, however, has a much longer history stretching back decades on American public television.

How many seasons does Masterpiece have?

Masterpiece has 8 seasons in its current format, comprising 149 episodes in total. Season episode counts vary: Season 1 has 15 episodes, Season 2 has 19, Season 3 has 25, Season 4 has 20, Season 5 has 19, Season 6 has 25, Season 7 has 13, and Season 8 has 13 episodes.

Is Masterpiece still airing or has it been cancelled?

Masterpiece is currently a returning series and remains in production. It continues to air on PBS, presenting new dramatic productions each season. The series has not been cancelled and is expected to continue bringing acclaimed British and American dramas to American audiences.

Who narrates Masterpiece on PBS?

Laura Linney serves as the narrator for Masterpiece on PBS. The acclaimed Academy Award-nominated actress provides on-screen introductions and context for the anthology’s various productions, a role that replaced the previous hosted format used under the earlier Masterpiece Classic branding.

What is the content rating for Masterpiece?

Masterpiece carries a TV-PG content rating in the United States, indicating that some material may not be suitable for younger children. Parents may find it appropriate to watch alongside younger viewers. The rating reflects the series’ generally sophisticated but accessible dramatic content.

Where can I watch Masterpiece online?

Masterpiece is available to stream through PBS and the PBS Masterpiece channel. Viewers can find current and past productions via the PBS website and app, as well as through the dedicated PBS Masterpiece subscription channel available on Amazon Prime Video and other streaming platforms.

What are some shows similar to Masterpiece?

Viewers who enjoy Masterpiece may also appreciate Quiz (2020), a gripping British drama about the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? cheating scandal, Around the World in 80 Days (2021), an adventurous period adaptation, and Grace and Frankie (2015), a character-driven drama with strong performances.

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