OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network announced today that it has secured the network television rights to Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, the critically acclaimed film from the Weinstein Company based on the 1995 book Long Walk to Freedom and former South African President Nelson Mandela, starring Idris Elba and Naomie Harris.  

OWN has licensed the first broadcast window behind pay television beginning in 2017.

The film chronicles Mandela’s early life, coming of age, education and 27 years spent in prison before becoming President and working to rebuild the country’s once segregated society.  

Idris Elba stars as Nelson Mandela, Naomie Harris stars as Winnie Mandela, with Justin Chadwick directing.

“We couldn’t be more honored to showcase this powerful film to the OWN viewers,” said Erik Logan, president, OWN. “Nelson Mandela was Oprah’s hero, and ultimately, the inspiration behind Oprah’s school in South Africa.  His story of forgiveness and redemption is a gift not only to the people he touched, but to the world.”

Commented TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein, “We’re delighted that this film has landed a television home at Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network. Partnering with them ensures the picture will continue to honor the memory of Nelson Mandela for years to come.”