For many Black Americans, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X are forever intertwined in history. They only met once, by chance, on March 26, 1964, during the Senate debate on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The photograph capturing this brief encounter would become iconic.
Now, National Geographic’s acclaimed “Genius” series is delving into the lives of these two influential figures in its fourth season, titled “MLK/X.” Starring Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Martin Luther King Jr. and Aaron Pierre as Malcolm X, the series aims to offer a comprehensive exploration of their legacies.
The decision to focus on both King and Malcolm X simultaneously sets “MLK/X” apart from its predecessors in the “Genius” series, which featured singular figures like Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso, and Aretha Franklin. This unique approach was spearheaded by the Hollywood power couple and executive producers of the series, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood.
The inspiration for the dual narrative came from the play “The Meeting,” which aired on PBS’s prestigious “American Playhouse” in 1989. Written by Jeff Stetson, the play imagined a fictional meeting between King and Malcolm X. Stetson serves as an executive producer on the series, along with showrunners Raphael Jackson Jr. and Damione Macedon, known for their work on the Starz series “Power.”
In “MLK/X,” the aim is not to pit King against Malcolm X but to highlight their shared objectives and the different methods they employed in the pursuit of justice. King believed in nonviolence and integration, while Malcolm X advocated for armed self-defense and Black nationalism. As the series explores their lives, it becomes clear that they were more alike than separate, ultimately converging on similar paths.
The significance of their wives, Betty Shabazz and Coretta Scott King, is also emphasized in the series. Prince-Bythewood, the director of “Woman King,” another project centered on Black women, highlights the importance of their roles not only in their husbands’ lives but also in the broader civil rights movement.
To maintain historical accuracy, the creators of “MLK/X” established a “think tank” comprising scholars and activists, including historian Peniel E. Joseph and Ambassador Attallah Shabazz, the eldest daughter of Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz. By drawing from personal accounts and lesser-known details, the series presents a nuanced and authentic portrayal of these iconic figures.
Kelvin Harrison Jr., who portrays Martin Luther King Jr., immersed himself in Atlanta, King’s hometown, to better understand the civil rights leader’s essence. Aaron Pierre, playing Malcolm X, delved into extensive research, including reading “The Autobiography of Malcolm X: As Told to Alex Haley” and watching documentaries guided by Dr. Betty Shabazz. Pierre also explored the streets of Harlem, connecting with the energy of Malcolm X’s history.
Actors Weruche Opia and Jayme Lawson, who portray Coretta Scott King and Betty Shabazz, respectively, embraced the opportunity to shed light on the depth of their characters. Lawson emphasizes the intimacy between Malcolm X and Shabazz, showcasing a side often overshadowed by the strength and resilience typically associated with Black women. Opia reveals the significant contributions of Coretta Scott King, challenging the limited narratives that have overlooked her impact.
By humanizing these legendary figures, “MLK/X” aims to create a connection between the audience and the complex individuals behind the icons. The series seeks to inspire viewers to see beyond the pedestals and discover the shared humanity of these influential husbands and wives.
Catch two episodes of “MLK/X” every Thursday on National Geographic, with replays on Hulu and Disney+ the following day throughout Black History Month.
This article was written by F5 Magazine.