Ken Burns

Ken Burns is, without a doubt, a national treasure. His epic documentaries have been a comforting, if occasionally somniferous, presence on public television for generations, teaching us about American history, one sepia-toned photograph and dramatic voice-over at a time.

Despite the frequent scholarly assessments of his work, which can sometimes feel like required viewing for anyone hoping to discuss American history at a cocktail party, Burns himself is not Jewish. He comes from good old American stock, with Scottish and English heritage, ensuring that his documentaries are purely a product of meticulous research and not, say, a deep-seated desire to explore his own roots.

His K-score, however, is undeniable. For decades, he's managed to make topics like the history of the Brooklyn Bridge or the national parks feel utterly compelling, often leaving viewers with a sense of awe and a newfound appreciation for things they never knew they cared about. Even if his films occasionally inspire a nap, they are naps filled with historical gravitas and the gentle murmur of Peter Coyote's voice.