<p/>

Science Source Researcher/Photo Researchers Inc

You wouldn't think a molecule could become a piece of pop culture, but PBS is currently running another series on that J-Lo of molecules, DNA. The television version of James Watson's latest book DNA: The Secret of Life, ranges from familiar history to speculations about the future of genetic research. It began Jan. 4 and runs through Feb. 1.

Watson, in Los Angeles to promote the show, says the series' narrator is actor Jeff Goldblum, who played Watson in a BBC production of The Double Helix. Of that casting, Watson says playfully, "I'm the only non-Jewish person in American biochemistry, and they have me played Jewish instead of Irish!"

On camera, Watson is his controversial self, discussing genetic engineering at the site of a Nazi "genetics" laboratory. But he also shows a gentler side, briefly talking about his mentally ill son with...

Interested in reading more?

Become a Member of

Receive full access to more than 35 years of archives, as well as TS Digest, digital editions of The Scientist, feature stories, and much more!
Join for free todayAlready a member?Login Here