One Thousand Years of Slavery Doc Set for Smithsonian Channel

MTV Entertainment Studios and Smithsonian Channel are set to commemorate Black History Month with the premiere of the four-part documentary series One Thousand Years of Slavery—The Untold Story.

Narrated by Courtney B. Vance, the docuseries explores the legacy of slavery and how our shared history can create a better future. It is slated to premiere on Smithsonian Channel in the U.S. and Canada on February 7 and will air in Latin America and Brazil later this year.

One Thousand Years of Slavery—The Untold Story uncovers the truth of the 1,000-year story of slavery around the world. Leading Black actors, celebrities and influencers such as Debbie Allen, Valerie Jarrett, Lorraine Toussaint, Soledad O’Brien, CCH Pounder, Senator Cory Booker, Marc Morial and Dulé Hill will be featured in the series and confront their personal connection to slavery and its legacy today.

One Thousand Years of Slavery—The Untold Story is executive produced by Angela Bassett and Vance’s Bassett Vance Productions.

Nina L. Diaz, president of content and chief creative officer at MTV Entertainment Group, said: “We are honored to anchor our Black History Month content with this innovative, impactful docuseries that unveils untold stories of resistance, power and human bondage on a global scale. In order to move forward, we must look back. And, thanks to Courtney, Angela, our partners at Bassett Vance Productions and the extraordinary list of contributors, it is our hope to do just that.”

Vance added: “The Smithsonian Channel and Smithsonian brand are known around the world as a trusted resource that makes history accessible for all. We couldn’t think of a better outlet to tell this important and increasingly relevant history. We are incredibly proud to be part of this journey.”

Bassett said: “As an executive producer on One Thousand Years of Slavery, Bassett Vance Productions wanted to tell the globally comprehensive history of slavery. Finding the right partner and audience who share common beliefs and values was absolutely imperative as we navigate a topic that still haunts us decades later. One Thousand Years of Slavery stretches the canvas beyond the 400 years we’ve traditionally learned about, and I’m thrilled to bring this storytelling to life with Smithsonian Channel.”