Morgan Freeman has been signed to play Nelson Mandela in a film of the former South African president. "I am honoured and terrified that I won't live up to the job of really presenting this man," said the Shawshank Redemption star. He will have some capable support in the task, however, as Mandela himself has agreed to meet with him whenever possible.
Morgan will also have the help of director Shekhar Kapur, who was behind the critically acclaimed historical biopic Elizabeth. "Nelson Mandela is a spiritual leader like Gandhi," said the British director. "He does not need to fight a bloody battle in order to win. "The film will be based on the renowned civil rights activist's autobiography Long Walk To Freedom. The former Africa National Congress leader spent 27 years as a political prisoner before being released and leading his people to freedom.
Morgan, while not quite so distinguished as the 84-year-old politician, is also highly accomplished in his chosen discipline. His performances in films like Unforgiven, Seven and Bonfire Of The Vanities have earned him a reputation as one of America's finest acting talents.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Despite his own status in Hollywood, Morgan Freeman says he is feeling nervous about playing the legendary ANC leader
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Nelson Mandela seems to be the centre of artistic attention at the moment, with Bono recently releasing a song written in tribute to him
