In "The Long Walk of Nelson Mandela," FRONTLINE tells the intimate and surprising story of a Mandela few people know: a bomb-throwing revolutionary who became a skilled politician in prison, and a passionate man who sacrificed the love of his life for a country that needed him more.
Watch The Film Online
As the world responds to Nelson Mandela's passing, FRONTLINE is making "The Long Walk Of Nelson Mandela" — its definitive two-hour documentary film on the remarkable leader — available to watch online for the very first time. (Originally aired: May, 25, 1999)
"Arguably, television's most detailed and comprehensive biography to date of the person who led South Africa out of the darkness of brutality and bigotry into the light of civil and human rights." - New York Daily News
"[The producers] succeed brilliantly, introducing the masses to Mandela the man rather than the living monument." - New Orleans Times-Picayune
"This is, without contest, the definitive TV biography of that remarkable politician, statesman and leader who changed his world." - Houston Chronicle
Widely hailed as the definitive television biography of Mandela, the documentary draws on stories and insights from Mandela's closest colleagues, fellow prisoners, friends and political adversaries —as well as unique photos and rare archival film — to paint an intimate portrait of one of the 20th century's greatest leaders.
FRONTLINE is also exploring Mandela's legacy through illuminating digital content — including an interactive Facebook timeline that chronicles his formative upbringing, his time in prison, and his trailblazing quest to end Apartheid in the country he loved.
"Nelson Mandela united a nation and inspired the world," says David Fanning, FRONTLINE's founder and executive producer (and a native of South Africa). "As we all mourn Mandela's passing and celebrate his legacy, FRONTLINE is proud to present our unique portrait of this extraordinary man.”
"The Long Walk of Nelson Mandela" is on Facebook. FRONTLINE is on Facebook, and follow @frontlinepbs on Twitter. Past episodes of FRONTLINE are available for online viewing.
