New York, New York – Paramount Network and award-winning filmmaker Derik Murray have joined forces for a new, original documentary on the life and legacy of our country’s legendary statesman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Premiering, Wednesday, April 4 (9:00-10:30pm ET/PT), “I Am MLK Jr.” on the 50th Anniversary of his tragic assassination, tells the story and celebrates the life of this American icon from an engaging contemporary perspective structured around seminal events of the Civil Rights Movement.
“I Am MLK Jr.” features interviews with key figures, ranging from history-changing civil rights-era activists such as Rev. Jesse Jackson, Ambassador Andrew Young, Congressman John Lewis, and Rev. Al Sharpton, to contemporary writers, activists and influencers in sports, entertainment and media such as Van Jones, Carmelo Anthony, Nick Cannon, Shaun King, Malcolm Jenkins and more. Click HERE for the trailer.
Dr. King used the power of his words to lead the movement in nonviolent acts of resistance such as protests, grassroots organizing, and civil disobedience in the fight to achieve equality for African Americans in the United States. From the Montgomery bus boycott to the Freedom rides to the March on Washington D.C., “I Am MLK Jr.” gives an in-depth look into these pivotal moments through the powerful lens of Dr. King and his closest confidents. The film will filter history through a human perspective and illustrate aspects of the private side of Dr. King’s work and life by exploring moments of personal challenge.
“I Am MLK Jr.” will connect the issues facing Dr. King then and the movement for equality today sparked by recent significant moments ranging from Ferguson, Mo. to Charlottesville, Va. and even to NFL sidelines.