Documentary ‘Following Harry’ Highlights Belafonte’s Legacy of Activism

A new documentary, Following Harry, is bringing renewed attention to the life and legacy of legendary Jamaican-American entertainer and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte, examining his efforts to inspire younger generations to continue the fight for social justice.

Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Susanne Rostock, the documentary explores the final 12 years of Belafonte’s life, focusing on his activism, mentorship and relationships with artists and organizers working to address racial inequality and injustice. The film became available on major video-on-demand platforms in the United States and Canada on October 13.

Belafonte, who died in April 2023 at age 96, built an influential career as a singer and actor while remaining deeply involved in the American civil rights movement. His entertainment achievements included the landmark 1956 album Calypso, which helped popularize Caribbean music internationally, and film roles spanning Carmen Jones and Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman.

However, Following Harry places particular emphasis on Belafonte’s activism and his commitment to passing his experience and knowledge to younger advocates. The documentary follows his engagement with movements and events connected to the aftermath of Trayvon Martin’s death, protests in Ferguson, Missouri, and the Women’s March.

Among those featured is actor Jesse Williams, known for his role in Grey’s Anatomy, who reflects on Belafonte’s support following a speech he delivered while accepting the BET Humanitarian Award in 2016.

Williams’ remarks addressed racial injustice and the need to recognize the work of grassroots organizers, civil rights attorneys, families, teachers and students. The speech attracted significant attention and was followed by threats against Williams and his family, as well as professional consequences he said affected his career.

In the documentary, Williams recalls that Belafonte contacted him after the speech to warn him about the backlash he might face. Williams said he later visited the veteran activist at his home and found comfort in his support during a difficult period.

He described the experience as one that made him feel “held” during a chaotic time, explaining that Belafonte’s encouragement continued to influence his work.

The documentary also features a range of artists and activists, including Angela Davis, Jamie Foxx, Aloe Blacc, Carmen Perez, Chuck D, Rosario Dawson, Talib Kweli and Aja Monet. Through interviews, personal reflections and footage of Belafonte’s public and private life, the film examines how his example helped shape the work of people committed to social change.

Rostock previously directed Sing Your Song, a documentary about Belafonte’s earlier life and career. Following Harrycontinues that story, shifting its focus toward his later years and his efforts to prepare a new generation to carry forward the work of challenging injustice.

Belafonte’s message to those who follow him is central to the film: each generation must take responsibility for its own future while learning from the experiences of those who came before.

The documentary is available through major digital platforms, including Amazon and Apple TV.