Oprah Winfrey Network announced Monday it secured the network television rights to Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, the Weinstein Company film based on the 1995 book Long Walk to Freedom and former South African President Nelson Mandela's life.  

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom chronicles Mandela's early life, coming of age, education and 27 years spent in prison, before becoming president and working to rebuild the country's once segregated society.  Idris Elba (Prometheus) stars in the lead role, Naomie Harris (Skyfall) stars as Winnie Mandela, with Justin Chadwick (The Other Boleyn Girl) directing. 

OWN has licensed the first broadcast window behind pay television beginning in 2017. 

"We couldn't be more honored to showcase this powerful film to the OWN viewers," said OWN President Erik Logan. "Nelson Mandela was Oprah's hero, and ultimately, the inspiration behind Oprah's school in South Africa.  His story of forgiveness and redemption is a gift not only to the people he touched, but to the world."

Commented TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein said, "We're delighted that this film has landed a television home at Oprah Winfrey's OWN network. Partnering with them ensures the picture will continue to honor the memory of Nelson Mandela for years to come."

Winfrey attended Mandela's funeral ceremony on Dec. 15 in Qunu, South Africa. The former president died on Dec. 5, just hours before the royal premiere of Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. On the day of his passing, Winfrey posted on Instagram a photo of her with Mandela and a message about the first time they met.

"One of the great honors of my life was to be invited to Nelson Mandela's home, spend private time and get to know him. He was everything you've ever heard and more - humble and unscathed by bitterness," she wrote. "And he always loved to tell a good joke. Being in his presence was like sitting with grace and majesty at the same time. He will always be my hero. His life was a gift to us all."

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