Mandela’s life to be made into TV series

The biopic of Mandela, 93, who was a political prisoner for 27 years before becoming South Africa’s first black president in 1994, is said to be titled Madiba, the tribal clan name which he is known by in South Africa.

Writers of the six-part series are believed to be working closely with the Nobel Peace Prize winner, and his grandson, Kweku Mandela, has been named as one of the show’s producers.

Kweku told the BBC that the £13-million series aims to show a portrait of his grandfather beyond his political and civil rights achievements by following his life.

“I felt if we were going to do this, it was important to put the focus on the man,” Kweku said.

“That’s why in the research for this it’s important that we get as close to his thoughts as we can. The people who helped guide him and shape him as a person will be strong characters.”

Madiba is set to be screened in the UK next year.