Following on the M&G report by Zodwa Kumalo-Valentine about Producer Anant Singh’s decision not to screen “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” for 24 hours, following the death of Madiba, this report relates to the response of the audience, and includes exclusive video footage.
Scott Feinberg in the Hollywood Reporter:
How ‘Mandela’ Royal Premiere Audience Reacted to News of Leader’s Death (Exclusive Video)
The London crowd, which included Prince William and Duchess Catherine, gasped as Anant Singh and Idris Elba shared the news just after the credits rolled.
Gasps were audible throughout the packed cinema for Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’s royal premiere on Thursday when the film’s producer Anant Singh announced the death of South African leader Nelson Mandela to the London audience.
As the credits rolled, Singh took to the stage along with Mandela actor Idris Elba, who was visibly emotional, to address the crowd, which included Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. The Hollywood Reporter obtained the first footage of the announcement, seen above.
“I wanted to advise you that President Zuma of South Africa has announced the passing of Madiba at 9:30 tonight.” Singh said, “He stated that Madiba had departed and was at peace. ‘Our nation has lost it’s greatest son.’ Zindzi and Zenani [two of Mandela’s daughters who were seated inside the theater when the Mandela film began] are at the hotel — they wanted the movie to continue — and our hearts and prayers go out to everybody. Can I call for a minute of silence?”
Via Scott Feinberg in the Hollywood Reporter with link to exclusive video footage of audience response.
