The Life and Legacy of George Bizos: A Documentary Portrait of 'The Mandela Lawyer'

Renowned as 'the Mandela lawyer', George Bizos was a colossus in the struggle against apartheid whose contributions went far beyond the courtroom. South Africans are set to gain a more profound understanding of this indomitable figure through M-Net's documentary "George Bizos: Icon", which will bring to life the gripping story of Bizos, a man pivotal to the nation's democratic heritage. Scheduled to air on 16 December, the Day of Reconciliation, a fitting date that captures the spirit of Bizos’s life’s work, the documentary is not just a history lesson but an intimate exploration of a man who lived an extraordinary life.

This feature brings the viewers up close and personal with a man who not only shaped legal history but was also an ardent gardener, a lover of nature, and a refugee who never forgot his roots. Bizos's layered personality is unveiled through heartening anecdotes from his close associates such as former president Thabo Mbeki and former deputy chief justice Dikgang Moseneke, as well as insights from Bizos’s family.

The documentary narrates the story of George Bizos, the young Greek boy, who, upon arriving in South Africa, was immediately struck by the glaring inequalities that would later fuel his fight for justice. It follows his journey through his work with Nelson Mandela, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Steve Biko, and other prominent figures in pivotal events like the Rivonia trial and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

While deeply entrenched in the legal battles for human rights, Bizos brought compassion to the forefront, often sharing the produce of his own garden with political prisoners. Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, who worked alongside Bizos, captures this essence, sharing tales of Bizos’s ability to find answers to complex legal questions amidst his green sanctuary.

The documentary also delves into Bizos's significant impact post-democracy, including his role in drafting South Africa's Interim Constitution and his endeavors against the death penalty. Moreover, it recounts his representation of the families impacted by the tragic Marikana massacre in 2012, highlighting his unwavering commitment to justice even in the latter stages of his career.

"George Bizos: Icon" emphasizes not just the accomplishments of the man but the humanizing aspects of his character that made him a beloved figure. The documentary ensures that viewers get to know Bizos not just as a historical figure, but as a multifaceted individual with deep convictions and personal passions.

As we approach the airing of this touching tribute to George Bizos on M-Net DStv channel 101, viewers are invited to tune in at 10 pm on 16 December to witness the magnificence of a man whose legacy is an intrinsic part of South Africa's journey towards equality and justice.