Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Emmy Winners Brewster and Stephenson to Direct Paul Robeson Documentary
Imagine a superhero who was amazing at many things!
Paul Robeson was like that.
He was a super-talented singer and actor who starred in famous plays and movies.
He was also a star football player and even studied to be a lawyer.
But Paul didn't just entertain people; he also spoke up for what he believed in.
He cared about fairness for Black people and opposed bad guys like fascists.
Because he spoke out so strongly, some powerful people didn't like him, and it made his life difficult.
Now, filmmakers Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson are making a movie to tell everyone about this incredible man.
They want to show how he broke barriers as an artist and bravely fought for justice, inspiring us all to do the same.
Filmmakers Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson are directing a new documentary about Paul Robeson.
The film will explore Robeson's multifaceted career as an actor, singer, athlete, and activist.
Robeson achieved significant success despite racial barriers, starring in major productions and excelling in sports.
His political activism, including opposition to fascism and views on the Soviet Union, led to government scrutiny and career challenges.
The documentary aims to highlight Robeson's lasting legacy and inspire future generations regarding justice and equality.
- Who
- Emmy-winning filmmakers Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson, in collaboration with Rise Films, Rada Studio, and Impact Partners.
- What
- Embarking on a major documentary about the life of actor-singer-activist Paul Robeson.
- When
- The documentary is currently in production.
- Where
- The documentary will explore the life and legacy of Paul Robeson, a significant figure in American culture.
- Why
- To share Robeson's story and legacy, which continues to resonate in contemporary social issues, inspiring new generations about his contributions as an artist and activist.
Artist and Activist
Legacy of a Transcendent Figure
Robeson's Impact
Artist and Activist
Paul Robeson's radical views and activism led to his passport being revoked, denunciation as a traitor, and destruction of his career during the McCarthy period.
Legacy of a Transcendent Figure
Robeson's story is emblematic of major 20th-century themes, and his legacy in art and activism laid foundations for future civil rights movements.
- Filmmakers
- Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson
- Producers
- Teddy Leifer, Guy Horlock, Michèle Stephenson, Joe Brewster, Susan Robeson
- Production Companies
- Rise Films, Rada Studio, Impact Partners
- Paul Robeson's Birth/Death
- 1898-1976
- Key Works
- Othello, The Emperor Jones, Show Boat
- Activist Stances
- Opposed fascists in Spanish Civil War, supported Indian independence, expressed sympathy for the Soviet Union