BBC4 to premier Winnie Mandela drama

The BBC has commissioned a new biopic drama on the life of Winnie Mandela, the wife of the first black president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela.

The lead role is to be played by the Oscar nominated actress, Sophie Okonedo.

The one off drama will be premiering on BBC4 before being shown on terrestrial channel BBC2.

The programme was shot on location in Soweto.

It covers the time period between the fifties when they first met, until 1990 when Nelson Mandela was released from prison.

Winnie Mandela was a controversial figure to say the least and the BBC see this drama as an opportunity to explore her character and actions, which ultimately led to her being jailed and released on appeal, and to her losing her ANC government ministers position.

Story link: BBC4 to premier Winnie Mandela drama