A new three-part docuseries titled Free Nelson Mandela, directed by James Rogan and airing on Channel 4, offers a detailed exploration of the life and legacy of the late South African president, Nelson Mandela. The series traces Mandela’s journey from being labeled a terrorist for his anti-apartheid activism with the African National Congress (ANC) to his 27 years of incarceration on Robben Island, and finally to the global movement that secured his release in 1990.

The docuseries presents an unvarnished portrayal of apartheid-era racism and state-sanctioned brutality. It highlights incidents such as the 1976 Soweto uprising, during which the United Nations estimates more than 1,000 unarmed student protesters were killed. The series also examines the controversial role of Winnie Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s then-wife, who adopted militant tactics including the endorsement of “necklacing,” a violent practice involving placing burning tires around the necks of alleged regime collaborators.

While the series fully acknowledges the international support for Mandela’s cause, featuring interviews with figures such as Jerry Dammers, the musician behind the anti-apartheid anthem "Free Nelson Mandela," some critics note the focus on Western musicians may be disproportionate relative to other aspects of the struggle. The strength of the docuseries lies especially in its archival footage and the diversity of voices it includes—from Mandela’s family members to fellow ANC activists—providing a broad perspective on the era’s challenges and triumphs.

The series also casts a critical eye on the political stance of Western leaders during Mandela’s imprisonment. Both former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and U.S. President Ronald Reagan are depicted as maintaining policies that appeared reluctant or resistant to pressuring the apartheid regime for Mandela’s release.

Notably, Mandela himself remains an understated presence throughout the series, which may reflect the intent to highlight how authorities sought to keep him marginalized and out of the public eye during his imprisonment. Ultimately, the docuseries underscores how these efforts failed, cementing Mandela’s enduring role as a symbol of resistance and reconciliation.