Expanded Media and Lawrence Elman and Nick Fraser of Docsville Studios are to make a new film about the life of Reverend Jesse Jackson.

Through exclusive access to Reverend Jesse Jackson and his family – and 60 years of previously unseen family archive footage – this is the untold story of the incredible life of a major shining light for human rights around the world.

The film is billed as  Reverend Jackson’s personal story, in his own words, for the first time.The production has gained exclusive access to Reverend Jesse Jackson and his family – and 60 years of previously unseen family archive footage

The co-production, destined for release as both a theatrical feature and a limited series, will be directed by Shola Lynch (Chisholm ’72: Unbought & Unbossed, Free Angela & All Political Prisoners).

Jackson’s youngest son, Yusef Jackson, an attorney, entrepreneur, corporate advisor, and community advocate, will co-Executive Produce.

Yusef D Jackson, son of Rev Jesse Jackson and Executive Producer, says: “On behalf of my entire family and especially my father, Rev Jesse Jackson, Sr, we are humbled and honoured to partner with Expanded Media and Docsville Studios to help tell the story of his life and legacy, now 80 years in the making. Even after living most of his life in the public eye, there is so much of my father’s story and the work that he’s done to progress civil rights, social justice, public service, and democracy around the world that is not widely known. We’re honoured to finally have the opportunity to authentically share his story, our family’s story, and how we fit into the landscape of our country’s biggest struggles and brightest victories over the last several decades.”

Francis Hopkinson, MD, Expanded Media, says: “The Reverend Jesse Jackson has spent the last 60 years of his life advocating for social justice and his leadership helped to create real change in addressing racism and discrimination. This film not only tells the story of the man, in his own words, but explores the personal backdrop of what his trailblazing meant for his family. That’s why it is such a unique and special film.”

Lawrence Elman, CEO, Docsville Studios, adds: “There is no doubt that Jesse Jackson is one of the most influential people of all time. To be able to tell his story, in his own words, is a unique privilege and we would like to thank the Reverend Jesse Jackson and his family for welcoming us into their lives. The huge amount of interest we have had in this project exemplifies how important this story is to the history of civil and human rights everywhere.”

Director, Shola Lynch, comments: “Despite his Parkinson’s, or maybe due to it, Jesse Jackson is going to slow down enough to talk through and reflect on his life long fight for racial and economic justice. When others have been killed, moved on, or retired, Jackson has been tireless, even relentless. Before he can’t, with no question out of bounds, and Mrs Jackson and their family willing to contribute, this is a rare opportunity that I could not pass up. Jesse Jackson is part of the fabric of American history and culture as an activist and agitator. Who is he really? Let’s find out.”

The untitled project is a co-production between Expanded Media and Docsville Studios.  Produced by Lawrence Elman and William Keys, the Executive Producers are Francis Hopkinson and Ron Burkle for Expanded Media; Nick Fraser and Simon Kilmurry for Docsville Studios; and Yusef Jackson for The Jackson Foundation. The film is backed by The Yucaipa Companies.

Jon Creamer

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