KAMU Station News

Ken Burns and The American Buffalo on KAMU

With an exciting array of programs coming to KAMU this October, a standout is a new documentary special from Ken Burns. For decades, this award-winning filmmaker has explored a variety of important stories throughout history. Whether it’s sports, history or nature, Burns has covered topics and issues that appeal to a wide audience. Below we showcase a few of his most popular programs, including a closer look at his newest series, “The American Buffalo.”

“The American Buffalo” on KAMU

The newest installment from Ken Burns tells the tragic story of the buffalo and how a certain group of people came together to fight back against the species’ extinction. 

In this two part docu-series, “The American Buffalo” begins with a focused history on the connection of the buffalo with the Indigenous people of North America. Bonded in spirit and kinship, Native Americans across the North and South Plains considered this animal to be sacred. Yet, with the progression of westward expansion in the mid-1800s, hide hunters started to take over the Great Plains. This led to a species that once had a population of 12-15 million falling to less than a thousand buffalo in just a few years. 

With the near extinction of their most cherished animal, the Native American tribes of the Great Plains fell into a state of despair. However, the series’ second episode focuses on a group of individuals who unified against the buffalo’s eradication. This had a ripple effect across the U.S., encouraging a nation-wide effort aimed towards saving the buffalo. 

See all of this and more when part one of “The American Buffalo” premieres on KAMU Monday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. with part two following on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at the same time. 

Miss the first showing? Watch a double feature of “The American Buffalo” when it re-airs on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

Other Ken Burns films on KAMU Passport

With dozens of programs to choose from, KAMU Passport also features some of Ken Burns’ most popular documentaries. Here are just a few that you can watch on Passport:
Country Music: A film by Ken Burns

Country Music

One of Burns’ newest installments, “Country Music” reveals never-before-told stories from the genre’s most familiar voices. Featuring interviews with Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks and more, hear first-hand accounts on the history and rise of American country music. From the evolution of the early genre, to the growth of “Music City” and the smashing success of “Hee Haw,” you can jam out with this eight-part series anytime on KAMU Passport.

Stream Country Music

Franklin, Theodore and Eleanor Roosevelt

The Roosevelts: An Intimate History

Known for their considerable impact on American politics, Burns highlights the intricate details of the lives of Franklin, Theodore and Eleanor Roosevelt. Starting from their childhood, this seven-part series portrays the relationships formed between the three individuals as well as their respective missions towards American prosperity. Learn more about their early life, their impacts on the policies of the era and how Eleanor sought to create a lasting family legacy long after their time in politics.

Stream The Roosevelts: An Intimate History

Jackie Robinson: A film by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns & David McMahon

Jackie Robinson

As the man who revolutionized baseball, Jackie Robinson is considered one of the most influential athletes in American history. You’ve heard his story, but never in the way this filmmaker intended it to be told. In this two-part series, Burns seeks to dive deeper, focusing on Robinson’s impacts even after his time on the baseball field. Learn how he not only fought to break the color barrier in professional sports but also cultivated a life long legacy of activism.

Stream Jackie Robinson

 

hands reaching up across American flag

The U.S. and the Holocaust

Inspired by exhibits in the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C., this series explores how the U.S. responded to one of the worst humanitarian crises in history. Examine the rise of Nazism on a global scale and what role the U.S. played throughout this era. Nominated for Emmy Awards in three separate categories (Outstanding Documentary Series, Outstanding Writing for Nonfiction Program, Outstanding Directing for Documentary Series), this is a can’t miss program featured on KAMU Passport.

Stream The US and the Holocaust


Interested in streaming one of these films or other Ken Burns documentaries? Learn more about joining KAMU Passport today.

Fun Facts About Bees

On “Texas A&M Today,” we covered the Texas A&M honey bee research program. We learned several fun facts about bees from the research team and we want to share them with you in this article.

Thank Those Bees

Do you enjoy almonds? Whether you eat them plain, in granola, or in milk form, you need to thank bees. “100% of almond production relies on honey bee pollination,” said researcher Dr. Juliana Rangel. It’s one of many food sources and plants that rely on bees, which provide about $16 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

Bees swarm in an observation hive.

Not All Bees Have Stingers

Drone honeybees — which are the males — cannot sting. Rangel told our crew, “you can actually grab a drone with your fingers and he will never sting you, because he does not have a stinger.”

Ball of Heat

Stinging isn’t the only defensive behavior bees use. If another insect like a wasp or hornet threatens a hive, honey bees can surround them in a ball of swarming bees that will generate heat warm enough to fry the enemy. “The temperature they generate is just low enough that it will not kill the honey bees,” Rangel said.

Bees Are Girl Bosses

All workers in the honey bee colony are females. That means 99.99% of bees that you see on flowers are female because males can’t forage or gather pollen. “They are only out of the colony during the spring or fall during reproductive season,” Rangel said.

The Mating Process

Honey bee queens only make one mating flight during their lives — although they’ll mate with an average of 15 drone bees during the flight. “Then she’ll never mate again,” Rangel said.

Two beekeepers are filmed while pulling out beehives.

Go for White

Bees are less attracted to light colors than dark colors. Why? According to Rangel, “it’s because bees are used to being attacked by small mammals with dark fur.” So if you’re wearing dark colors or have dark hair, bees are more likely to fly near you. That’s why beekeepers wear white gear.

Bees Are Hungry

Ever wondered why there are so many bees near gas station trash cans or flying around open soda cans? It’s because of a lack of natural resources. During seasons when it’s hard for bees to forage from flowering plants, they search out any resource that seems to have sugar in it.

“Honey bees recruit other nestmates to food sources,” Rangel said. “One forager finds it and communicates to the other bees and then you have dozens of bees from that colony foraging all of those resources.”

Bees Need Water

Honey bees consume water. “They need to consume water for their physiological processes,” Rangel said, “but also to dilute food that they feed to the developing babies.” However, bees prefer to drink water that contains salt and minerals rather than clean water.

Beekeepers tend to bees in a large field.

Support the Texas A&M Honey Bee Research Program

Rangel invites viewers to support the mission of their program. “You can either follow or like us on our social media platforms to learn about what we’re doing in terms of research and outreach,” she said.

The program also has an endowed fund, called the Nevin Weaver Endowed Fund, which you can donate to directly via the Texas A&M Foundation.


Season 2 of “Texas A&M Today” is now streaming on YouTube and PBS.org. Visit our show webpage for more information.

On Set With the Crew of Texas A&M Today

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in September 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about our show. For more information, visit our “Texas A&M Today” show page.

Season 2 of KAMU’s original production, “Texas A&M Today,” debuts Sept. 25 at 9 p.m. on KAMU-TV and streaming online, with new episodes airing every two weeks. This season, meet nurses, honey bee researchers, ship conservationists, race car builders, floral designers, musicians and more. Hear from some of the best and brightest in Aggieland — and learn new Aggie facts.

Ahead of the premiere, we’re giving you a behind-the-scenes preview of a few stories you’ll see this season.

Conserving Nautical Artifacts

On Episode 1 – Premiering Sept. 25 at 9 p.m.

You don’t see something from the Revolutionary War every day. The crew marveled at the cannons Texas A&M’s Conservation Research Lab is restoring.

A KAMU cameraman films a graduate student working on a Revolutionary War cannon.

Eventually, the cannons will return to Savannah, Georgia, where they will be displayed at the Coastal Heritage Society’s Savannah History Museum.

A museum curator asks questions on camera.

Part of the crew traveled to Savannah to interview the museum curator and enjoyed their time in Georgia, although they took the Texas heat with them — Savannah saw record temperatures the week the crew was there.

Honey Bee Research

On Episode 1 – Premiering Sept. 25 at 9 p.m.

Putting on a protective beekeeping suit is an interesting experience. It’s equal parts comforting and nerve-wracking. But it allowed our crew to hang out with thousands of bees.

Two beekeepers are filmed while pulling out beehives.

The team at the Janice and John G. Thomas Honey Bee Facility was wonderful to work with. The crew learned a lot about bees and will bring the most interesting facts to your screen.

A sticker on a window that says Girls Just Want to Keep Bees.

Aggie Facts: A&M’s Mummy

On Episode 1 – Premiering Sept. 25 at 9 p.m.

An old black and white picture of a mummy at Texas A&M

The story of A&M’s mummy is a fascinating tale that quickly became a crew favorite. You won’t want to miss this story told featuring historical records and photos.

Mobile Air Pollution Research

On Episode 2 – Premiering Oct. 9 at 9 p.m.

Chelsea Reber and Dr. Yue Zhang talk while driving.

The crew got to have a little fun with this one and ended up turning a van decked out for air quality monitoring into the perfect spot for a carpool karaoke-esque interview — albeit without the singing.

Maj. Gen. Tim Green Q&A

On Episode 2 – Premiering Oct. 9 at 9 p.m.

The crew visited the Texas A&M RELLIS campus several times this year. One visit was to interview Director of the Bush Combat Development Complex, Tim Green.

Chelsea Reber talks to Tim Green at the BCDC.

With cutting-edge vehicles and equipment surrounding the crew, host Chelsea Reber talked with Maj. Gen. Green about his 30+ year military career and why the work done at the BCDC is important.

History and Future of Aggieland’s Music Scene

On Episode 3 – Premiering Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Colin from Surfaces is filmed while he plays guitar.

This story placed the crew in two cool situations that don’t happen every day. First, they interviewed Colin Padalecki ’20. Now known as half of the 3x platinum recording duo Surfaces, Padalecki got his start in the music industry while still a student at A&M.

Padalecki shared his time, music expertise and cute pup with the crew, and they even got to hear some songs he’s been working on.

A curious dog pokes his nose into a camera lens.

Later, the crew took to the stage of Rudder Auditorium for an interview with author Rob Clark ’95 about the history of music in Aggieland. It features one of the coolest interview backgrounds of the season.

The cameras and crew watching an interview taking place on the Rudder Auditorium stage.

Automated Greenhouse

On Episode 3 – Premiering Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Did you know there’s a robot arm on campus taking pictures of plants? You do now!

A crew member films a professor talking about corn breeding.

Corn breeder Dr. Seth Murray walked the crew through his experiment. The greenhouse is extremely high-tech but also hot — the staff tries to replicate an average summer day in their indoor environment.

A crew member films plants at a greenhouse.

Learning About Aquaculture

On Episode 3 – Premiering Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Host Chelsea Reber fed some fish when the crew visited the Aquaculture Research and Teaching Facility.

Chelsea Reber and Dr. Delbert Gatlin poke their fingers in a fish tank.

Dr. Delbert Gatlin gave Chelsea a tour of the facility as he explained how their research impacts the fish on your dinner plate and your fishing rod.

Pet Mythbusters Q&A with Dr. Lori Teller

On Episode 3 – Premiering Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Debunking myths and old wives’ tales was the name of the game when host Chelsea Reber sat down with veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller ’90.

Chelsea Reber talks to veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller.

From the true ages of cats and dogs to what human foods your pets can actually eat, Teller set the record straight for proper pet care.

Safety Preparations on Aggie Game Day

On Episode 4 – Premiering Nov. 6 at 9 p.m.

Keeping the players, coaches and 100,000+ fans safe during an Aggie Game Day comes down to a dedicated team. Before the first football game of the season, the crew spoke to representatives from Emergency Management, the University Police Department and Texas A&M Athletics.

A crew member puts a microphone on the university police chief.

On game day, the crew filmed everything they could, getting a true behind-the-scenes look at what goes into the busiest days on campus.

Testing Taste Buds

On Episode 4 – Premiering Nov. 6 at 9 p.m.

Tucked away in the top corner of the Kleberg Center is a lab dedicated to taste. Dr. Rhonda Miller gave host Chelsea Reber a crash course in sensory evaluation.

Dr. Rhonda Miller shows Chelsea Reber how to be an expert taste tester.

Miller also had the help of several animal science students and faculty members, who showed the proper way to cook meat for an expert panel of taste-testers.

A student checks the temperature of a ground beef patty.

Building Race Cars

On Episode 5 – Premiering Nov. 20 at 9 p.m.

Texas A&M’s chapter of the Society of Automotive Engineers builds competition-grade race cars from the ground up each year. The entirely student-led organization invited the crew to the track for a test day.

A race car driver prepares to drive away.

Later, team leaders shared just how difficult it is to build a car that starts, handles well, has enough horsepower and won’t break down.

Floral Design

On Episode 5 – Premiering Nov. 20 at 9 p.m.

Chelsea Reber and Bill McKinley are filmed while making floral arrangements.

Making floral arrangements isn’t as simple as it looks. Host Chelsea Reber learned that firsthand as Texas A&M’s resident floral expert, Bill McKinley ’83, taught her how to make a Kubari design.

Chelsea’s designing days might not be over — she told McKinley she’ll send him pictures of whatever she makes next.

Chelsea Reber and floral designer Bill McKinley hold their arrangements as they get their picture taken.


Learn more about “Texas A&M Today” on our show webpage. Plus, stream Season 1 any time.

The “Texas A&M Today” team would like to thank all university partners for their assistance and support for Season 2. Gig ’em!

Sesame Street Crew Joins KAMU for Season 53

Kick off the fall by tuning in to the newest season of “Sesame Street” on KAMU. Learn and grow with Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster and more as your favorite characters team up with a star-studded list of celebrity guests. Here’s what you need to know about this historic and meaningful show before it premieres on Sept. 7.

The return of your favorite cast, both new and old

Since its start in 1969, “Sesame Street” has become one of the most iconic PBS programs. It includes some of television’s most renowned characters, making it hard to find someone who doesn’t hold this historic show close to their hearts. Later in the article, we share just how special this show is to KAMU. 

Over its 50 plus years of production, the “Sesame Street” cast has made many new additions while continuing to include its popular leads. On Season 53, you can still find Ernie playing his mischievous tricks on Bert or practice your numbers with Count Von Count. But you can also meet some new faces who joined the show recently, such as Gabrielle. Learn about Gabrielle’s passion for music as well as her love for cooking with her grandmother in this new season.

What’s new this season?

Aside from its iconic cast, “Sesame Street” is known for bringing influential figures on to its set. In the past, the show has hosted presidents, musicians and actors, and this new season is no different.

The first episode of Season 53 includes visits from musician Mickey Guyton and comedian Amber Ruffin. You can tune in as the season progresses to see guest appearances from Brett Goldstein, Samuel L. Jackson, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and more.

Later this fall, you can also look forward to the Season 53 holiday special, “Sesame Street: The Nutcracker.” Watch on KAMU as Elmo and Tango explore this classic tale.

A meaningful message

This season of “Sesame Street” will continue the show’s mission of educating children through a positive environment. Sesame Workshop states that Season 53 is “devoted to helping children grow up with a healthy self-identity and sense of belonging.” When watching their favorite PBS KIDS program, viewers can grow their knowledge with new ways to celebrate their own culture and heritage. 

One of KAMU’s most beloved programs

KAMU has always had a close connection with the show. For our 10th anniversary in 1980, the street next to our broadcast building was renamed “Sesame Street” to celebrate. Although this sign is no longer present, this fun fact serves as a memento of the history of KAMU and our dedication to educational programming. 

To learn more about the history of our own “Sesame Street,” check out this Aggie Fact from our show, “Texas A&M Today.”

When and where to watch

You can watch the Season 53 premiere Thursday, Sept. 7 at 9 a.m. on KAMU. Following this date, a new episode will be released each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. 

You can also watch “Sesame Street” on our 24/7 PBS KIDS channel (channel 12.3 or Optimum 18). New episodes from Season 53 air Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m.

Looking to stream “Sesame Street” from your device? Download the PBS KIDS Video app to watch both new and old episodes for free. Fans of the show can also check out the PBS KIDS games website, which features dozens of educational games to enjoy.

KAMU’s Passport for International Dramas

With KAMU Passport, you can access hundreds of your favorite PBS programs anytime, anywhere. Within Passport is “Walter Presents,” a collection of award-winning global dramas. Each program streams in its original language with accompanying English subtitles. With dozens to choose from, here are a few popular “Walter Presents” programs featured on KAMU Passport. 

Seaside Hotel

Seaside Hotel

Meet a clever cast of characters as the Andersen’s Seaside Hotel opens for the 1928 summer season. Among this comedic bunch is Fie, a new chambermaid who is immediately thrown into the drama and chaos that ensues throughout the lodge. During her time spent working at the hotel, Fie finds herself intertwined in disputes of love and loathing. Watch all nine seasons of this popular Danish program on KAMU Passport. 

Stream Seaside Hotel

Sisi: Austrian Empress

One of KAMU Passport’s most popular programs, “Sisi” chronicles the true story of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) of Austria in the early 1800s. This period drama details the early years of her reign and the politics that surrounded her family’s rule. With constant twists and an imminent war looming in the future, discover the story of one of Europe’s most powerful female leaders. 

Stream Sisi: Austrian Empress

Astrid

Astrid

Astrid Nielsen is a librarian for the judicial police when she is recruited by her superiors to help solve the most complex of cases. By using her astonishing memory and investigative skills, Astrid is able to see intricate details from obscure cases and files that had previously been dismissed. Watch Astrid and her team of field experts solve a string of crimes in this French investigative drama. 

Stream Astrid

Love, Inevitably

Stream this beloved program that captures shared love between two people who could not be more different. In “Love, Inevitably,” we meet Candela, a famous dancer, and Massimo, a stern businessman. As they continue to cross paths while journeying throughout Italy, Candela and Massimo can’t help but realize the growing connection between them. 

Stream Love, Inevitably

Luna & Sophie

Luna and Sophie

Two best friends join together as detectives in this investigative series. With Luna’s habit for stirring up trouble and Sophie’s rigid moral compass, the two opposites use their differences to solve local cases in their small German town. With three seasons currently streaming, watch these two witty friends and their passion for solving crime on KAMU Passport.

Stream Luna & Sophie


Interested in streaming one of these shows or other Walter Presents programs? Learn more about joining KAMU Passport today.

Welcome Back, Aggieland!

Welcome back, Aggies! Class is once again in session and football is right around the corner — and perhaps some cooler weather, too. We’re excited to welcome new students to campus and have our returning students back in town.

We want to introduce ourselves to our new community members. We’ve also put together some tips and recommendations for a fun and successful semester for students and professors alike. Read on for more, and good luck this semester, Aggies!

Who We Are

KAMU is the Brazos Valley’s premier public broadcasting station. For more than 50 years, we’ve provided educational and informative programs to viewers and listeners of all ages on TV and FM.

On TV, we are the region’s sole PBS affiliate. Whatever your taste, we have something for you: from dramas and cooking shows to travel and news. Or get your nostalgia fix with PBS KIDS programming, airing weekdays from 6 a.m.-1 p.m. on KAMU or 24/7 on our dedicated PBS KIDS channel (12.3 or Optimum 18).

On radio, we combine the best variety of NPR news coverage and interview shows with storytelling, music and local programming. Plus, our 24/7 classical music radio station is about to turn a year old.

Tips for a fun and successful semester

Whether you are looking for something new to do or to revisit a personal favorite activity, KAMU has put together a list of different ways you can have a great time in Aggieland!

Attend (or watch!) Midnight Yell

Midnight Yell is an event unique to Texas A&M. The night before each home football game, Kyle Field is opened to fans for yell practice. If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry. KAMU broadcasts and livestreams each yell practice. Watch on KAMU or stream through the PBS app.

Learn more about Midnight Yell

Study or grade with classical music

Stay focused with KAMU-Classical/HD-2. Whether you’re a student hitting the books before an exam or a professor grading papers, our 24/7 classical music station is the perfect choice. You can easily listen online or download the TuneIn app. If you have a slower internet connection, use this link instead.

Learn more about KAMU-Classical

Enjoy local events

Dozens of wonderful local events happen across town each semester. This fall, join KAMU in Downtown Bryan for First Friday each month. We also enjoy spending time with the community at The Local at Lake Walk and with students at occasional events on campus. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to be the first to learn about upcoming events.

View our events calendar

Watch Texas A&M Today

We go behind-the-scenes of your favorite university. “Texas A&M Today” is a KAMU original production using dynamic cinematography and creative storytelling to tell the stories of Aggieland. Learn about hidden gems of campus and hear from the best and brightest in our Aggie community. We’re preparing to premiere Season 2 this fall! For now, Season 1 is available to stream at any time.

Stream Texas A&M Today

Listen to The Heart of Art

Our community is full of passionate artists. Hector Niño ’21 talks to them all on his weekly radio show “The Heart of Art.” Learn about their artistic journeys and the impact their art has on the Brazos Valley and feel more connected to the community.

Listen to The Heart of Art

Learn with NOVA and NATURE

If you need to take a break from schoolwork but still want to grow your knowledge, “NOVA” and “NATURE” are perfect for you. “NOVA” is TV’s longest-running science series, covering interesting and timely topics. Just this year, they’ve dug into the data sent back to Earth from the James Webb Space Telescope, looked into the chase for carbon zero status and uncovered how the brain shapes your reality. On “NATURE,” the environment and wildlife of the Earth is under the spotlight: from Costa Rican hummingbirds to the 37 different species of dogs.

Learn more about NOVA
Learn more about NATURE

Let our production team collaborate with you

Professors: let our production team help you. We offer several collaborative services. We can record a lecture or a class series for an online course. Or if you’re contacted by a media outlet for an interview, we can provide professional backgrounds, lighting and cameras. The possibilities are limitless – we simply want to elevate the excellence of Texas A&M.

Learn more about our resources

Coming Soon: Season 2 of Texas A&M Today

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in August 2023 as a preview for the new season. Season 2 has since been published and can be streamed on PBS.org. For more information, visit our “Texas A&M Today” show page.

A SHOW ALL ABOUT AGGIES.

After an exceptional debut season in 2022, “Texas A&M Today” is back.

Premiering fall 2023 on KAMU-TV and streaming online, Season 2 goes behind-the-scenes at A&M with more than 30 new stories about Aggies making a difference.

Meet nurses, honey bee researchers, ship conservationists, race car builders, floral designers, musicians and more. Hear from some of the best and brightest in Aggieland — and learn new Aggie facts.

Season 2 premieres Monday, Sept. 25 at 9 p.m. with new episodes airing every two weeks. To stay up-to-date, subscribe to KAMU’s monthly newsletter or follow us on social media.

Catch up on Season 1 of “Texas A&M Today”

“Texas A&M Today” is made possible by Grow College Station. The program is hosted by local media personality Chelsea Reber, a 2010 A&M graduate.

Watch the Season 2 Preview:

A Big Mark for The Bookmark: 100 Episodes

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about “The Bookmark.”

This summer, KAMU celebrates 100 episodes of “The Bookmark” – an original TV collaboration between KAMU and Texas A&M University Press. To celebrate the 100th episode, we asked Host and Executive Producer Christine Brown to share her favorite moments from the show so far.


The Beginnings

Christine Brown and Gary Blair on the first episode of "The Bookmark"
Coach Gary Blair discusses his book on our first episode.

In 2017, I was talking with some of the KAMU staff at a division meeting and the idea of collaborating on a television program came up. We set up a meeting, I toured the studio and we came up with a plan for a show where I would interview authors of books from Texas A&M University Press and the Texas Book Consortium.

We filmed our first episode of “The Bookmark” in February 2017. While I don’t have a background in broadcasting, I do have a degree in English, so reading a book and discussing it was certainly something I was comfortable with. We carefully selected our first guest: then Texas A&M Women’s Basketball Coach Gary Blair. He was the perfect first guest because his book, “A Coaching Life,” had just come out and he’s comfortable in front of the cameras. Who better to coach me through my first episode than an accomplished coach?

Mixing It Up

A musician plays a cover song on the set of "The Bookmark"
Joey McGee covers Lyle Lovett’s “North Dakota” on our first hybrid episode.

Early on we did our first hybrid episode for the book “Live from Aggieland” by Rob Clark. The book recounts past legendary performances that happened in the Brazos Valley. As part of the launch, we had an event where local musicians played covers of artists featured in the book including Johnny Cash, Elvis, Willie Nelson and more. KAMU recorded the event and we were able to feature concert footage as part of the episode.

I certainly have to mention my first non-human guest, a snake named Lucky. The author of “Herping Texas: The Quest for Reptiles and Amphibians” brought Lucky with him to help illustrate how fascinating and non-threatening most reptiles can be. Lucky had excellent media training and even looked (and slithered) right into the camera for the promo.

Christine Brown holds a snake on set of "The Bookmark"
Christine holds Lucky the snake on set.

The most uncomfortable episode to film was no one’s fault but the Texas summer. The air conditioning went out (in August, of course), but the show must go on, and we filmed the “Explore Texas” episode as scheduled, with our guest who was a great sport.

Refreshed Look

The Bookmark logo over picture of the set
Our new logo and new set, prepared for the 2022 season.

Production shut down during the pandemic in 2020, but we came back strong in 2022 with “Scared Fearless” from author Kathryn Childers, who was one of the first female secret service agents. She’s a dynamic speaker with great stories to tell and was the perfect guest to re-launch the show on our new set.

We’ve now hit the milestone of 100 episodes, filmed over these past six years. I’ve had on 116 guests and featured 107 books. I’m grateful that we were able to film our 100th episode in a special location: Duddley’s Draw, one of the bars featured in the book “Texas Dives.” I think it enriched our discussion.

When we started “The Bookmark” back in 2017 I could not have imagined we would get this far, but I have found that I love doing the show and talking to authors about their books. I’m grateful for this partnership between KAMU and Texas A&M University Press, and I’m looking forward to the next 100!

Christine Brown and guests on the set of the 100th episode of "The Bookmark"
On set for the 100th episode at Duddley’s Draw.

The 100th episode of “The Bookmark” debuts Tuesday, June 27 at 4:30 p.m. on KAMU-TV and reairs Saturday, July 1 at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 4 at 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. An audio version also airs on 90.9 KAMU-FM on Sunday, July 2 at 2 p.m.

Stream “The Bookmark” anytime online on PBS.org.

Christine Brown is the Publicity and Advertising Manager for Texas A&M University Press, which is the only university press in the United States with its own dedicated television show. Questions? Email Christine at christinebrown@tamu.edu

The Final Case: A Salute to Endeavour

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in May 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about these shows, many of which can be streamed on PBS.org.

– “My heart is breaking and my mind is working overtime.”

– “Oh Morse, my heart broke right there with you.”

– “Well worth the wait, so sad to see it end.”

– “Such few good stories to watch. Soon we’ll have one less.”

– “I have savored every moment. I’m not ready to say goodbye.”

It’s beloved by many on the KAMU staff, viewers like you and thousands more around the world. But after nine gripping seasons and 36 heart-pounding episodes, it’s time for a curtain call. “Endeavour” ends this summer with three thrilling episodes sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

We’re getting you ready for the final season with everything we know — and suggesting some other shows to watch when your heart misses the Inspector Morse universe.

  1. How to Watch the Final Season
  2. Catch Up on Previous Seasons
  3. What to Expect in the Final Season
  4. Go Behind the Scenes of the Morse Universe
  5. What to Watch When You Miss Morse

Morse from an episode of Season 9 of Endeavour.

How to Watch the Final Season

  • Season 9, Episode 1 airs June 18 at 8 p.m.
  • Season 9, Episode 2 airs June 25 at 8 p.m.
  • Season 9, Episode 3 airs July 2 at 8 p.m.

KAMU is your TV home for the final season of “Endeavour,” airing Sundays at 8 p.m. starting June 18. If you’re not near a TV, watch our livestream on any device through our website or the PBS app. And if you miss the first airing of an episode, we’re replaying each one the following Thursday at 8 p.m.

Want to watch on your schedule? Each episode will be available to stream for free through the PBS website for two weeks after its first airdate.


Morse and Joan Thursday from an episode of Season 9 of Endeavour.

Catch Up on Previous Seasons

Morse has been through a lot in this origin story that serves as a prequel to “Inspector Morse” (1987-2000). We’ve watched him join the Oxford police force, team up with DI Thursday, get shot, lose family members, explore romance, receive a medal from the queen, argue with friends and descend into drunken stupors.

All eight seasons are available for streaming through KAMU Passport if you’d like to catch up on all the twists and turns before Season 9 premieres.

(WARNING: Season 8 spoilers ahead)
Where did we leave our favorite Oxfordshire friends at the end of Season 8? Well, Morse’s struggles with alcohol only got worse. Thursday urged him to get help — which Morse finally agreed to, entering rehab as the final episode ended. Morse’s longtime attraction to Thursday’s daughter, Joan, played center stage, too, as Joan found comfort in the arms of Morse’s former housemate, DS Jim Strange. Finally, after the team works through two series of connected murders, the Thursdays receive another blow: their soldier son is missing.


Morse from an episode of Season 9 of Endeavour.

What to Expect in the Final Season

As Season 9 begins, Morse has returned to Castle Gate after his rehab stay. It’s the spring of 1972 and new mysteries and secrets are ready to unfold, from the cobbled streets of Oxford to the criminal underworld of London.

Familiar faces return and an old case resurfaces with new, unsettling ties. An increasing intimacy in Joan and Strange’s relationship promises more personal struggles for Morse.

Episode 1: Prelude
A murder in a college garden leads Endeavour to investigate a celebrated Oxford orchestra but, when a second tragedy hits, he discovers a story the ensemble would sooner forget.

Episode 2: Uniform
A crime wave has taken hold of Oxford. A debauched group of undergraduates are wreaking havoc across town, and the death of a uniformed policeman sends shockwaves through Castle Gate.

Episode 3: Exeunt
A series of death notices in the Oxford Mail, each with a distinctive, cryptic message, provides clues to Endeavour’s latest — and final – investigation. Meanwhile, Thursday is under pressure from a familiar face.


Morse from an episode of Season 9 of Endeavour.

Go Behind the Scenes of the Morse Universe

Look back at the journey from “Inspector Morse” (1987-2000), to the spinoff “Inspector Lewis” (2006-2015), through the nine seasons of “Endeavour” with a special documentary. “Morse and the Last Endeavour” airs June 11 at 8:30 p.m., one week before the final season premieres. In the hour-long program, you’ll hear from several cast members, including Shaun Evans, Abigail Thaw and Kevin Whately. If you miss the documentary, it will be available for streaming after the final episode of “Endeavour” airs.

If reading’s more your thing, check out a two-part interview with star Shaun Evans. “MASTERPIECE” caught up with him as Season 9 was being filmed and fans will love his honest answers. Check out part one here and part two here.


What to Watch When You Miss Morse

What’s one to do once they’ve caught up on Seasons 1-8 of “Endeavour” and watched the final season this summer? Find a new PBS detective show to watch, of course. From contemporary mysteries to period dramas, there’s a new favorite out there for everyone.

Each of these programs is available to stream with KAMU Passport — your key to thousands of PBS programs for $5 a month/$60 a year.

Masterpiece - Grantchester

Grantchester

Seasons 1-7 (Season 8 premieres in July)

Jazz-loving Reverend Sidney Chambers can’t help but fall into more worldly habits as he assists friend and actual detective Inspector Geordie Keating in solving murders. The series is soaked in the 1950s, from the fabulous clothes to the swinging jazz to the challenges of adjusting to life post-war.

Watch Grantchester
MASTERPIECE Miss Scarlet & The Duke

Miss Scarlet and The Duke

Seasons 1-3 (production for Season 4 is underway)

High-octane, smart and sassy with a slow-burn romance. Eliza Scarlet is the whip-smart daughter of renowned London private detective Henry Scarlet, who raised her to believe that she might one day follow in his footsteps. When Henry suddenly dies, a heartbroken Eliza discovers his considerable debts, and her only option for survival is to take on the family business.

Watch Miss Scarlet and The Duke
Unforgotten

Unforgotten

Seasons 1-4 (Season 5 premiering later in 2023)

Can anyone escape the past, or can it resurface to engulf you at any time? Detective duo DCI Cassie Stuart and DI Sunil “Sunny” Khan are determined and — for the most part — demon-free. She’s clever and canny, but it’s Cassie’s stillness and deep dedication to solving cold cases that make her an archeologist of the buried secret and human heart.

Watch Unforgotten
MASTERPIECE - Magpie Murders

Magpie Murders

Miniseries with a sequel in the works

A mystery within a mystery, adapted from author Anthony Horowitz’s bestselling book by the author himself. Book editor Susan Ryeland receives an unfinished mystery manuscript and becomes an amateur sleuth, plunging herself into a shocking case to find out the truth.

Watch Magpie Murders
MASTERPIECE - Annika

Annika

Season 1 (production for Season 2 is underway)

Rooted in modern Glasgow, DI Annika Strandhed balances maritime murders and a rebellious teenage daughter, all while dropping literary references, breaking the fourth wall and keeping viewers guessing through twists and turns galore. This show is especially a hit for fans of wry wit.

Watch Annika
MASTERPIECE - Van Der Valk

Van der Valk

Seasons 1-2 (production for Season 3 is underway)

Steely-eyed, street-smart and unapologetic, detective Piet Van der Valk investigates high-profile cases and gritty murders in Amsterdam. It’s a reboot of the wildly popular original series, which ran on British television from 1972-1992.

Watch Van der Valk
Baptiste

Baptiste

Seasons 1-2 (no more seasons planned)

Retired detective Julien Baptiste, recovered from a brain tumor and walking with a limp, claims he’s “not the man I used to be.” But will his transformation hinder — or help — him to find the truth amidst the criminal underbelly of Amsterdam’s Red Light District?

Watch Baptiste

Prime Suspect: Tennison

Prime Suspect: Tennison

Season 1 (no more seasons planned)

Behind every great detective is a backstory. In this prequel to Helen Mirren’s beloved characterization of Jane Tennison, we see Tennison as a rookie policewoman, fighting against sexist expectations.

Watch Prime Suspect: Tennison
Death Comes to Pemberley

Death Comes to Pemberley

Miniseries

As star-studded as it is thrilling. On the eve of Pemberley’s annual ball, new and beloved iconic characters of Pride and Prejudice assemble to bask in the warm glow of the Darcy’s sumptuous estate. But following Lydia’s frantic arrival and an investigation into Pemberley’s woods, a nightmare ensues and a scandal mounts, threatening Pemberley and all the Darcys hold dear.

Watch Death Comes to Pemberley

Remember the Fallen: A Memorial Day Weekend with KAMU

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in May 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about these shows, many of which can be streamed on PBS.org.

Memorial Day has been observed in America since shortly after the end of the Civil War. Throughout the war, thousands of soldiers lost their lives. Families lost husbands, fathers and sons. Historical records show dozens of women fought and died, too.

To pay tribute to the fallen soldiers, an organization of Union veterans selected May 30, 1868 as Decoration Day. Eventually, the name changed as more states began observing the day. In 1970, Memorial Day was changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May.

Nowadays, you can find families gathering together to remember and honor soldiers who fought to keep America safe in all of its conflicts. KAMU would like to be a part of your weekend by offering programs to honor and remember America’s heroes.

KAMU airs PBS program they volunteered for this: Merrill's Marauders

They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders

Sunday, May 28 • 3 p.m.

Follow the story of one of World War II’s most heroic units: Merrill’s Marauders. The unit fought in Burma under Frank Merrill. Made up of volunteers, they specialized in “hit and run” tactics. They struggled through a lack of supplies and used mules to move from place to place. Despite this, Merrill’s Marauders were so talented at their job that when they attacked, Japanese soldiers thought they were under siege from 15,000 soldiers when the group was only made up of 3,000 soldiers. News anchor Tom Brokaw narrates the story of these extremally talented and legendary heroes, who recently received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2022.

Learn more about They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders

National Memorial Day Concert

National Memorial Day Concert

Sunday, May 28 • 7 and 8:30 p.m.

Join KAMU for one of PBS’ most popular and beloved programs, the “National Memorial Day Concert.” The concert unites America by showing appreciation to those who gave their life to our nation. Performers such as Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, The National Symphony Orchestra and more will honor our country’s fallen soldiers and their families. For over 30 years, PBS has featured uplifting performances, documentaries and readings in this tradition that families look forward to each year. Honor and remember our nation’s heroes with KAMU on Sunday, May 28 at 7 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m.

Learn more about the National Memorial Day Concert

The Seabees Iwo Jima on KAMU-TV

The Seabees on Iwo Jima

Monday, May 29 • 9 p.m.

The story of the Seabees is a powerful piece of history. Construction workers by trade, the Seabees were Navy construction battalion units unloading supplies and building roads and airstrips. But one day, they were called to do much more. This group of men ended up fighting alongside combat troops in the battle for Iwo Jima. Their bravery and heart move anyone who hears this story. PBS brings in CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz to narrate. Join KAMU as we unfold what happened that day and understand the meaning behind the message, “We Build, We Fight.”

Learn more about The Seabees on Iwo Jima

The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli on KAMU-TV

The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli

Monday, May 29 • 10 p.m.

Return with us to Ramitelli Airfield to remember men who broke the mold. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American pilots who not only helped win World War II but helped break stereotypes. In this documentary, the daughter of one of the pilots visits the remains of the Italian airfield to remember. Help us remember the fallen with the retelling of the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, narrated by country star, Darius Rucker.

Learn more about The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli