Oprah Winfrey has partnered with Lionsgate and The New York Times to help produce an award-winning series on multiple forms of entertainment. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Nikole Hannah-Jones’, 1619 series, will be transformed into into a film, television, and documentary series.
The 1619 Project which was released by The New York Times in August 2019, had a goal of re-examining slavery in the United States. The project was released just in time for the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first Africans in Virginia in 1619. According to ESSENCE, it is a
“critically acclaimed series of well-researched essays that re-examines the transatlantic slave trade, slavery and its roots to modern-day racism.”
“We took very seriously our duty to find TV and film partners that would respect and honor the work and mission of The 1619 Project, that understood our vision and deep moral obligation to doing justice to these stories. Through every step of the process, Lionsgate and its leadership have shown themselves to be that partner and it is a dream to be able to produce this work with Ms. Oprah Winfrey, a trailblazer and beacon to so many Black journalists,” said Nikole Hannah-Jones. “I am excited for this opportunity to extend the breadth and reach of The 1619 Project and to introduce these stories of Black resistance and resilience to even more American households.”
In responce Winfrey said, “From the first moment I read The 1619 Project and immersed myself in Nikole Hannah-Jones’s transformative work, I was moved, deepened and strengthened by her empowering historical analysis,” said Winfrey, sharing Hannah-Jones’ excitement. “I am honored to be a part of Nikole’s vision to bring this project to a global audience.”
Enjoy the 1619 podcast below:
Winfrey is no stranger to media production as she created her cable called called the Oprah Winfrey Network in 2011. This collaboration is sure to be a good one.