Cynthia Erivo Cast as Miriam Makeba in R300m Film ‘The Road Home’

Cynthia Erivo has been cast as Miriam Makeba in the upcoming drama The Road Home. This is an international production that looks at the political resistance during apartheid.

Directed by Bill Condon, the film uses true events from the lives of Makeba and Hugh Masekela during their years in exile.

“This is a powerful story about art intersecting with activism, a friction that’s only become more complex with time,” Condon said. “I’m honored to be a part of this extraordinary team.”.

Photo: Instagram

Erivo’s role as Makeba is expected to bring more attention to the film. Known as “Mama Africa,” Makeba used her music to campaign against apartheid.

Thabo Rametsi plays Hugh Masekela, who struggles with life during exile. His journey shows the dilemma faced by many South African artists during the period. Guy Pearce is Trevor Huddleston, an Anglican cleric who supported the cultural boycott.

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The screenplay is written by Michael Bronner, with contributions from Zakes Mda. Production is done by Studiocanal with support from the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation.

Photo: Instagram

With around R300 million budgeted for this film, The Road Home is a huge investment in African movie production. Filming will take place in South Africa, with locations showing Makeba’s early life. The soundtrack is expected to have versions of songs by  Makeba, Masekela, and the Graceland era.

The Road Home is a historical drama that explores music as a tool of resistance. By looking at the lives of Makeba and Masekela, the film explores how South African artists cope during apartheid. With Cynthia Erivo taking a lead role, movie enthusiasts are looking forward to a great time.