PBS Focuses on Billie Jean King in New American Masters Documentary

One of the more fascinating aspects of Billie Jean King’s career and life is that not only did she fight for equality on the court, but also off. While listing King’s accomplishments here would be redundant, “American Masters,” the long-running documentary series on PBS, does an excellent job of balancing both athletic accomplishment, as well as giving a in-depth perspective into the era of tennis King played in, but also the political and social climate at the time. As a longtime viewer of “American Masters,” this kind of in-depth character study shouldn’t surprise, however; for the uninitiated, you’re getting a true glimpse into what it means to be a champion both on and off the court. What’s fascinating here is that this is the very first time “American Masters” has profiled a professional athlete. This is somewhat surprising in that the series could have easily showcased the NBA’s Michael Jordan, NFL’s Joe Montana or the NHL’s Brett Hull, King receives the honor.

“I am thrilled ‘American Masters’ is choosing to showcase my journey as we celebrate so many historic anniversaries in my ongoing commitment to social justice and equality,” said King. “It is an honor to be the first athlete profiled in the 27-year history of ‘American Masters,’ and I look forward to bringing our message of equality to audiences of all ages and all backgrounds.”

King, the winner of 39 Grand Slam titles over the course of her career, is perhaps best known for The Battle of the Sexes, where she accepted a challenge from Bobby Riggs, winning around $100,000 in the process, as part of the winner-takes-all male vs. female competition. King also puts a definition on what it means to be a feminist, stating, “It means choice; it means equality for boys and girls. That’s what it means to me. The guys loved it, because I always included them. I still do."

Featuring interviews ranging from Hillary Clinton and Elton John to Margaret Court, Chris Evert, Maria Sharapova, Serena and Venus Williams, and other past and present tennis greats, the film highlights the impact a strong-willed feminist like King had on the sport of tennis. The recipient of multiple awards and recognition, the film recaps her Grand Slam victories, while also putting an emphasis on being a gay athlete at a time when being “out” would have had an effect on the then-fledgling women’s tour.

“Billie Jean King embodies the art of sports, of humanism, and of activism. For more than 50 years, her excellence and example have sparked the way for changes that enrich us all,” said Susan Lacy, creator and executive producer of “American Masters.” “Billie Jean’s star on our cultural landscape shines brighter and brighter, with no end in sight.”

“My favorite thing is to stay at my home and do nothing. I live for those days where I can walk around the neighborhood, play tennis in Central Park or go out to the Sportime facility on Randall’s Island,” King said, as a longtime resident of New York. “New York is bustling with things to do, and I enjoy going to the movies, concerts and dance performances at the Beacon Theatre or Lincoln Center, and I wish I had time to catch two Broadway plays a week!”

“American Masters: Billie Jean King” airs Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 8:00 p.m. on PBS with replays on PBS throughout the month.