Ken Burns named grand marshal of Rose Parade

PASADENA – Award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns, who has directed and produced some of the most admired documentaries about the history of the United States, was announced Wednesday as the 2016 Tournament of Roses Grand Marshal. 

Tournament of Roses president Mike Matthiessen made the announcement at a public event at Tournament House in Pasadena, during which the 2016 Grand Marshal was revealed through a celebratory documentary video created by Burns 

“Ken Burns is a legendary figure and a great fit for this year’s Rose Parade theme, ‘Find Your Adventure,’” Matthiessen said. “We’re so honored to have someone like Ken, who has devoted his life to telling the story of America, lead the Rose Parade – America’s New Year’s celebration – that provides hope and joy to millions of people around the world.”

Throughout his almost 40-year career making documentary films, Burns, age 62, has been honored with countless awards, including 14 Emmys, two Grammy awards and two Oscar nominations.