Aditya N
Aditya N
AppleTV+ is prepared to debut its upcoming limited biographical drama, The Big Cigar. The series will give audiences an authentic account of Black Panther leader Huey P. Newton’s life, specifically focusing on his bold journey to Cuba. Don Cheadle serves as both the director and executive producer of this 6-episode drama.
The highly praised magazine article by Joshuah Bearman inspired The Big Cigar, set to premiere on May 17, 2024, exclusively on AppleTV+. André Holland will be portraying the lead role of Newton, renowned for his performance in the Academy Award-winning movie Moonlight (2016). Alongside Holland, the biographical drama includes acclaimed actors such as Alessandro Nivola and Tiffany Boone, bringing to the screen the daring and courageous scheme that culminated in Newton’s surprising quest for liberty. The narrative traces the escape of Black Panther Party co-founder Huey Newton from the FBI to Cuba. With the help of Hollywood producer Bert Schneider, Newton devises an audacious scheme involving a fictitious movie production. Throughout the escape, unexpected turns challenge the feasibility of the plan. Despite numerous hurdles, the story remains grounded in reality, incorporating imaginative and authentic elements to evoke a sense of drama for the audience.
Huey P. Newton, an African-American activist and co-founder of the Black Panther Party, dedicated the organization to providing community services and later shifted towards advocating black empowerment as a Marxist group in opposition to the FBI. Newton, who held a Ph.D. in social philosophy, faced legal troubles and controversies throughout his lifetime. Despite these challenges, his impact on history remains significant. Tragically, he was murdered in West Oakland by Tyrone Robinson, a member of the Black Guerilla Family and drug dealer. The incident highlighted the strained relations between the Black Panther Party and the Black Guerilla Family, which had been ongoing for nearly two decades.
