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American Masters: LENNONYC

"LENNONYC" is the story of one of the most famous and influential artists of the 20th century and how he found redemption not in the public adoration he craved as a youth, but in the quiet and simple pleasures of fatherhood. It is also a New York immigrant’s tale. John Lennon came to New York City in 1971 seeking what every other immigrant has sought: freedom — the freedom to be himself and not “Beatle John,” the freedom to live a normal life. With unprecedented and exclusive cooperation from Yoko Ono, access to never-before-seen material from the Lennon archives and conversations with those closest to him -- Ono, Elton John, the photographer Bob Gruen, Ringo Starr -- AMERICAN MASTERS tells John Lennon's story as it has never been told before -- and as it will never be told again.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono on the street in New York City.

Credit: Getty Images

John Lennon standing with his arm around Yoko Ono, who is holding a bouquet of flowers, in New York during the 70s.

Credit: © Ben Ross

John Lennon and Yoko Ono sitting on a bed writing in New York during the 70s.

Credit: © Ben Ross

John Lennon and Yoko Ono share a kiss on their bikes in New York during the 70s.

Credit: © Ben Ross

Yoko Ono during PBS’ "American Masters: LENNONYC" (W.T.) session at the TCA Summer Press Tour in Los Angeles on August 5, 2010. Yoko Ono and series creator and executive producer Susan Lacy discuss John and Yoko’s time together in New York City.

Credit: Courtesy of Jake Landis/PBS

John Lennon on rooftop in New York City

Credit: © Bob Gruen / www.bobgruen.com