
Host of television's favorite art show The Joy of Painting
A behind-the-scenes look at the beloved public television personality's journey from humble beginnings to an American pop-culture icon. "The Happy Painter" reveals the public and private sides of Bob Ross through loving accounts from close friends and family, childhood photographs and rare archival footage. Interviewees recount his gentle, mild-mannered demeanor and unwavering dedication to wildlife, and disclose little-known facts about his hair, his fascination with fast cars and more. Film clips feature Bob Ross with mentor William Alexander and the rough-cut of the first "Joy of Painting" episode from 1982. Famous Bob Ross enthusiasts, including talk-show pioneer Phil Donahue, film stars Jane Seymour and Terrence Howard, chef Duff Goldman and country music favorites Brad Paisley and Jerrod Niemann, provide fascinating insights into the man, the artist and his legacy.
Directed bySherry Spradlin
Blue Ridge PBSWatch the
Featuring

Bob Ross
Self (archive footage)

Steve Ross
Self (archive footage)
Walt Kowalski
Self
Annette Kowalski
Self
William Alexander
Self (archive footage)

Phil Donahue
Self

Jane Seymour
Self

Joan Rivers
Self (archive footage)

Terrence Howard
Self

Regis Philbin
Self (archive footage)
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