Plot Synopsis

Hosted and executive produced by Emmy-winning journalist Carlos Watson, BREAKING BIG is a half-hour documentary series that explores the unexpected journey to success of some of the world's most influential artists, innovators, political leaders, athletes, authors and entrepreneurs. Each of the 30-minute documentary films traces the unusual path followed by one of 12 talented men and women -- from country music superstar Jason Aldean and former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson to Oscar-winning director Lee Daniels and chef and restaurateur Eddie Huang -- who overcame nearly insurmountable obstacles and long odds to reach and reimagine their own potential and, ultimately, to break big. The series also includes analyses from eminent social scientists, marketing experts, film critics, book editors and others to help viewers understand the risk-taking and bold moves these journeys require. In the series opener, Carlos talks with Trevor Noah about his journey from the comedy clubs of Johannesburg to one of the most coveted roles in American late-night television. He endured a difficult childhood in apartheid South Africa, but Noah not only overcame those tough times -- he channeled them into an internationally renowned comedy career. Noah was hand-picked by Jon Stewart to succeed him as host of THE DAILY SHOW. Other featured celebrities include:

- Eddie Huang: Chef and restaurateur, author of "Fresh Off the Boat"
- Danai Gurira: Actress and Award Winning Playwright (BLACK PANTHER, WALKING DEAD)
- Jason Aldean: Country music superstar
- Ruth Zukerman: Co-founder of SoulCycle and Flywheel
- Christian Siriano: Fashion designer
- Roxane Gay: Author and cultural critic
- Michael Strahan: Host of GOOD MORNING, AMERICA and former NFL star
- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand: U.S. Senator, New York
- Lee Daniels: Academy Award-winning director, Precious and Fox series EMPIRE
- Gretchen Carlson: Former Fox News anchor and Miss America
- Carmen Yulin Cruz: Mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico
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On Friday, September 14, 2018 at 8pm (check local listings), PBS premiered the season finale of BREAKING BIG. The season ender tracks the route of San Juan's Mayor Cruz after Puerto Rico was slammed by a catastrophic hurricane. The city leader stood up and fought for relief aid, becoming the heroic voice of her struggling island and the Puerto Rican people.