In 1962, cookbook author Julia Child boldly pitches a groundbreaking television series centered on demonstrations for the home cook – despite pushback from male station executives and her own husband.
Through Julia Child’s life and her singular joie de vivre, the series explores a pivotal time in American history – the emergence of public television as a new social institution, feminism and the women's movement, the nature of celebrity and America's cultural evolution.
In 1962, cookbook author Julia Child boldly pitches a groundbreaking television series centered on demonstrations for the home cook – despite pushback from male station executives and her own husband.
Facing mounting pressure from station executives, Julia struggles to figure out how to present a complicated recipe. Later, on-set flubs threaten the future of the show – and Julia’s career.
When the show goes overbudget, Julia doubles down on her efforts to continue making her dream a reality. As Paul contends with his fearsome father-in-law, Alice struggles with her new assignment.
As WGBH reaps the rewards of their new star’s efforts, a jealous rival threatens the station’s burgeoning success. While Julia struggles with the price of fame, Paul begins to accept defeat, and Alice changes tack.
In San Francisco, Julia tests the waters of her newfound celebrity status alongside celebrated chef James Beard, leaving a brooding Paul to question the true cost of his wife’s fame.
While Paul and Judith experiment with baking, Julia tackles a different kind of “bread.” As a sleep-deprived Russ tasks Alice with even more work, the future of Avis’s position on the show is called into question.
While in New York, Julia and the show receive both accolades and criticism. As Avis forges an unlikely friendship with Paul, Alice finds an unexpected connection of her own.
After suffering a terrible blow, Julia’s future – and the fate of the show – hang in the balance.
