John Legend has been cast as the late singer and activist Harry Belafonte in an upcoming film from director Bill Condon, according to Pitchfork. The movie, titled The Road Home, is currently in production.
The story centers on Hugh Masekela, known as the father of South African jazz, and Miriam Makeba as they tour South Africa with Paul Simon during apartheid. Thabo Rametsi will portray Masekela, Cynthia Erivo will play Makeba, and Guy Pearce has been cast as anti-apartheid advocate Archbishop Trevor Huddleston.
Legend said in a statement that he was honored to know Belafonte as a friend, mentor and collaborator in the struggle for justice. He called Belafonte an extraordinary human being and said it was a privilege to be asked to play him in the film.
Legend previously won an Oscar in 2015 for his song “Glory” from Selma. His most recent album was a children’s record produced by Sufjan Stevens, released in 2024.
