The four-part series will spotlight deeply personal and powerful stories from notable Black people recounting their experiences.
In the continuing legacy building accomplishments of Courtney B. Vance and Angela Bassett, their Bassett Vance Productions will collaborate with MTV and the Smithsonian Channel for a new docuseries, as part of their overall deal made back in 2020.
Entitled One Thousand Years of Slavery, the four-part series will sit down with “changemakers, inspirational creators, brave community leaders, and emerging notable dreamers” to delve into personal Black experiences amongst the collective. As per the press release, Bassett Vance Productions will feature confessionals from the likes of Senator Cory Booker, Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, actor David Harewood, and more.
“Through preserved historical documentation and insight from studied experts, every story unfolds to chronicle how slavery frames the present and continues to act as a distinct force on the future,” the press release states. “It’s a dialogue of reflection, oppression, and progression, offering diverse perspectives proving that this challenging yet imperative global conversation will continue for decades to come.”
This is the second announced project from Bassett Vance Productions as part of the overall deal the company made with MTV Entertainment Studios in 2020. Up first is a scripted original limited series inspired by the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, written by award-winning playwright Nathan Alan Davis, as reported by BlackFilm.com. “This partnership underscores our shared commitment to raise diverse voices and create content our global audience is yearning for that is both timely and telling,” said Nina L. Diaz, President of Content and Chief Creative Officer at MTV Entertainment Group.
“We are honored to partner with Bassett Vance Productions on this long-overdue landmark documentary series that reveals the untold story of human bondage on a global scale,” Diaz said in the press release about One Thousand Years of Slavery.
“The Smithsonian Channel and Smithsonian brand are known around the world as a trusted resource that makes history accessible for all,” Courtney B. Vance said in the same press release. “We couldn’t think of a better outlet to tell this important and increasingly relevant history. We are incredibly proud to be part of this journey.”
“‘One Thousand Years of Slavery’ stretches the canvas beyond the 400 years we think we’ve traditionally learned about and I am thrilled to bring this storytelling to life with Smithsonian Channel,” Bassett Vance Productions co-founder, Angela Bassett, added.
One Thousand Years of Slavery will be directed by BAFTA winner and British-Nigerian director David Olusoga.
Production on the limited docuseries has yet to be announced. Please watch the trailer below.
