Oscar-winning musician joins star-studded cast celebrating South Africa’s musical and political history
Oscar-winning singer John Legend has opened up about portraying legendary musician, actor and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte in the upcoming biopic The Road Home, while filmmakers have released the first official image of South African actor Thabo Rametsi as jazz icon Hugh Masekela.
The film, currently being shot in South Africa, explores a significant chapter in Masekela’s life, focusing on his years in exile, the anti-apartheid struggle and the controversy surrounding Paul Simon’s acclaimed Graceland album.
Legend, an EGOT-winning artist known for combining music with social activism, said playing Belafonte is a deeply meaningful experience because of their personal connection.
“I was honoured to know Mr Belafonte as my friend, mentor and collaborator in the struggle for justice. He was an incredible human being who lived a monumental, revolutionary life,” Legend said.
Honouring a civil rights icon
Belafonte, who died in 2023 at the age of 96, was one of the most influential figures in entertainment and activism. Beyond his success as a performer, he played a major role in the American civil rights movement and supported the global fight against apartheid in South Africa.
His work connected him with prominent South African artists, including Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba, who used music as a tool for resistance and raising awareness about apartheid.
Legend said he considers portraying Belafonte a privilege and hopes to honour the legacy of a man who inspired generations of artists and activists.
Thabo Rametsi takes on the role of Hugh Masekela
South African actor Thabo Rametsi, known for his role in Silverton Siege, will portray Hugh Masekela, one of the country’s most celebrated jazz musicians.
The cast also includes Cynthia Erivo as Miriam Makeba, Guy Pearce as Archbishop Trevor Huddleston and Johnny Flynn as Paul Simon.
Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Bill Condon, The Road Home follows Masekela’s journey during exile and his struggle between political responsibility and the belief that music could create change.
Music, activism and the Graceland controversy
The film explores the debate surrounding Paul Simon’s Graceland project, which was criticised by some anti-apartheid activists for violating the cultural boycott against South Africa.
While figures such as Huddleston opposed the collaboration, Masekela believed music could help amplify South Africa’s struggle internationally.
The story follows Masekela and Makeba as they come together to form the Graceland touring band, bringing South African music to audiences around the world.
Celebrating South Africa’s cultural legacy
The production is based on an original screenplay by Michael Bronner, developed alongside South African author Zakes Mda and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation.
Music producer Hilton Rosenthal, who worked on Paul Simon’s Graceland, will help oversee new recordings from Masekela and Makeba’s catalogues for the film’s soundtrack.
With an international cast and a story rooted in South Africa’s history, The Road Home aims to celebrate Hugh Masekela’s legacy and highlight the power of music as a force for unity, resistance and social change.
