Hollywood’s screen heroes commemorated real-life hero Nelson Mandela in the wake of his demise at the age of 95 on December 5, 2013. Mandela, whose contribution to the fight against racial segregation has been unparalleled, is well-loved in the entertainment industry.
Actor-director Morgan Freeman who played Mandela in the 2009 film Invictus, said in a statement following Mandela’s passing, “The world [has] lost one of the true giants of the past century,” reports Huffington Post. “Nelson Mandela was a man of incomparable honour, unconquerable strength and unyielding resolve,” he added. Referring to Mandela as a “saint to many and a hero to all who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind,” Freeman said that though Mandela is no longer with us, his journey will last with us forever.
Revered for his invaluable role in the South African anti-apartheid movement and for changing the political landscape of South Africa, Mandela has been a part of more than 55 political and historical documentaries and has had multiple films made on his life. His role has been portrayed by actors the likes of Idris Elba, who starred in a just-released adaptation of Mandela’s autobiography Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. Other actors who have depicted his character in films include Terrence Howard (Winnie Mandela, 2013), David Harewood (Mrs Mandela, 2010) and Clarke Peters (Endgame, 2009).
“What an honour it was to step into the shoes of Nelson Mandela and portray a man who defied odds, broke down barriers and championed human rights before the eyes of the world. My thoughts and prayers are with him,” said Elba. Actor Jennifer Hudson, who played the title role in Winnie Mandela expressed her appreciation for Mandela, “Mr. Mandela fought for freedom and equality that changed the face of South Africa and the world. We can all learn from his extraordinary journey,” she said.
Mandela is also known for his signature style; his traditional and colourful shirts called Madiba (named after Mandela’s African clan) epitomised his vivacious and mesmerising personality. Till this day, designers draw inspiration from his unique sense of style and aura of grandeur.
Be it in terms of his political legacy or his flair for fashion, Mandela’s iconic personality will never be forgotten.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 8th, 2013.
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