Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965. In the television series “Godfather of Harlem,” his character’s storyline reflects historical events leading up to his death, exploring his relationships with other characters and the political climate of the time.
“Godfather of Harlem” is a crime drama that blends real historical figures with fictionalized events and characters. The show features Malcolm X, played by Nigél Thatch, as a prominent figure during the early 1960s in Harlem. The series delves into Malcolm X’s complex relationship with the show’s protagonist, Bumpy Johnson, a notorious gangster, as well as his involvement with the civil rights movement and the Nation of Islam.
Throughout the series, Malcolm X is portrayed as a charismatic and influential leader who is deeply committed to the fight for racial justice. His character is shown grappling with internal conflicts within the Nation of Islam and external pressures from the FBI and other entities that perceive him as a threat. The show also touches upon his evolving political views and the eventual rift with Elijah Muhammad, which led to his departure from the Nation of Islam and the formation of his own organization, the Muslim Mosque, Inc.
The tension surrounding Malcolm X’s activism and outspokenness is a recurring theme in “Godfather of Harlem.” His assassination, while not depicted in the first season, looms as a significant event that would have a profound impact on the characters and the community he was a part of. The series provides a nuanced portrayal of Malcolm X’s final years, highlighting the challenges he faced and the legacy he left behind.
