 Stellar casts. Gripping stories. Superb direction. Sumptuous costumes, sets, locations.... These criteria describe so many of the hundreds of programs that have aired on MASTERPIECE THEATRE since its premiere in 1971. Derek Jacobi hosts the retrospective celebrating the best-loved programs in the series  35 seasons, selected by viewers in a nationwide survey. Joining Sir Derek are some of the best-loved stars from MASTERPIECE THEATRE s storied past, reminiscing about their roles and paying enthusiastic tribute to their own favorite actors, writers, and dramas.