Zindzi Mandela and her sister Zenani Mandela learned of their father’s death midway through the London film premiere of ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ Thursday evening.
The daughters of Nelson Mandela walked the red carpet at the high profile showing of the documentary detailing his life. When asked about his health, Zindzi responded, “My father is fine. He’s just a typical 95-year-old who is frail.”
It was during the screening of the movie that the Mandela sisters received a cell phone call regarding the death of their father. They quickly decided to slip away without disrupting the screening.
Film producer Anant Singh made the difficult announcement as the biopic credits rolled at the end of the viewing. He then led the group in a moment of silence to honor the anti-apartheid leader – bio here.
Prince William and Duchess Catherine were among those attending the premiere. The future king told the press as he and his wife left the venue, “It was extremely sad and unsettling news. We were just reminded what an extraordinary and inspiring man Nelson Mandela was. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”
Actor Idris Elba, who had the lead role in the film, told a reporter, “We have lost one of the greatest human beings to have walked this earth. I feel honored to be associated with him.”
Photos: WENN