A new documentary entitled “Following Harry” explores the final twelve years of the life of Harry Belafonte, highlighting his immense impact on civil rights activism within the Black community. The film offers an insightful look into the legacy of a man who was not only a celebrated entertainer but also a profound advocate for social justice. Belafonte, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 96, was widely revered for both his artistic achievements and relentless activism.
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Belafonte’s career as an actor and musician is characterised by numerous landmark moments. His performances in films such as “Carmen Jones” and “BlacKkKlansman” showcased his range and talent, while his iconic album “Calypso” made history as the first LP to sell over one million copies, dominating the Billboard charts for an impressive 31 weeks. Yet, as “Following Harry” makes clear, his most significant contributions may lie in his tireless efforts for civil rights alongside leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Jesse Jackson.
Directed by Susanne Rostock, “Following Harry” delves into the latter part of Belafonte’s life, where his commitment to activism became a focal point. The documentary features a series of interviews with Belafonte and commentary from contemporary Black activists who, like him, reignited their passion for social justice following the tragic murder of Trayvon Martin in 2012.
Among those featured in the documentary is actor Jesse Williams, known for his role on “Grey’s Anatomy.” Williams developed a close friendship with Belafonte, having first met him during a photoshoot for the cover of Ebony magazine’s 70th anniversary issue in 2015. In the film, Williams reflects on his initial hesitance regarding the photoshoot, expressing a desire for greater diversity in representation. His insights highlight the ongoing conversation about representation within the media and its implications for activism.
A pivotal moment in Williams’ career came in 2016 when he accepted the BET Humanitarian Award. During his acceptance speech, a portion of which is featured in “Following Harry,” Williams made a powerful statement regarding systemic injustices faced by the Black community. He emphasised the collective struggle against a system designed to divide and oppress, demanding immediate recognition of freedom rather than conditional promises for the future.
Following this high-profile speech, Williams faced considerable backlash, including direct threats to his safety and job losses attributed to his outspoken politics. “Following Harry” captures these tumultuous experiences and showcases the supportive role that Belafonte played during this time. Williams recalls a sense of solace and guidance he received from the civil rights legend during an extremely chaotic period in his life.
Despite the challenges, Williams has continued to flourish in his career, extending his work beyond acting into Broadway, where he received a Tony nomination for his performance in “Take Me Out.” He remained a prominent figure in television, continuing his role on “Grey’s Anatomy” until 2025 and taking on various roles in popular projects like “Only Murders in the Building” and “The Morning Show.”
Harry Belafonte’s legacy endures, rooted in both his artistic prowess and his steadfast dedication to civil rights. “Following Harry” poignantly highlights these dual aspects of his life, inviting viewers to reflect on the trails he blazed and the inspiration he provided to subsequent generations. Belafonte himself noted in the documentary, “All I can do is leave behind the crumbs of my experience,” suggesting that he hopes his journey may serve as a guide for others.
“Following Harry” is currently available for streaming on various video-on-demand platforms, including Apple TV and Prime Video. This documentary not only serves as a tribute to Belafonte’s remarkable life but also calls attention to the ongoing struggles for civil rights, underscoring the relevance of activism in today’s society. As audiences engage with this portrayal of a man who dedicated his life to justice, they are reminded of the importance of forging paths for change in their own communities.