BET Networks announced today its movie event “Madiba,” a three-part saga telling the definitive story of Nelson Mandela, that will air February 1st, 8th and 15 at 8 PM ET/PT. “Madiba” will be the cornerstone of BET’s Black History Month programming. Emmy award-winning and Oscar-nominated actor, playwright, director, and producer Laurence Fishburne stars as Nelson Mandela. Orlando Jones, David Harewood, Michael Nyqvist and Terry Pheto are co-starring.
Madiba, based on two Mandela autobiographies, “Conversations with Myself” and “Nelson Mandela by Himself,” tells the most personal and comprehensive story of Mandela’s life, focusing on the man, and his innermost thoughts and fears as he fought and sacrificed for freedom to become an international icon. While many recognize Mandela as the face of the Anti-Apartheid Movement, this mini-series also pays homage to the many lesser known men and women who sacrificed and suffered alongside of him in South Africa’s quest for freedom. Orlando Jones plays Oliver Tambo and David Harewood stars as Walter Sisulu, two of Mandela’s closest friends, while Michael Nyqvist plays Dr. H.F. Verwoerd, the prime minister of Apartheid-era South Africa from 1958 until his assassination in 1966. Terry Pheto plays Nelson’s second wife, Winnie Mandela.
The series was filmed exclusively in South Africa and on Robben Island, and along with detailing the early years of Mandela’s personal journey, “Madiba” reveals the behind-the-scenes strategizing and bold organizing tactics he and his collaborators used to bring attention to their movement both domestically and internationally. “Madiba” is relevant in these times of racial unrest and serves as a reminder of the trials of political injustice, and giving us a roadmap of the hope and possibilities that come with being on the right side of history.
The six-hour mini-series is produced and financed by Blue Ice Pictures, and Out of Africa Entertainment Production in association with Cinema Gypsy Productions and executive produced by Blue Ice Pictures’ president, Lance Samuels. The film is directed by Kevin Hooks, the first African-American director to helm a story about Mandela’s life and legacy.
“Madiba” is written by Paul Webb, Jane Maggs, Janine Eser, Avie Luthra and Kathleen McGhee-Anderson.
Watch the event series’ trailer below:
