Is The African Queen A True Story? Unveiling The Real Inspiration Behind The Classic Film

“Is African Queens: Njinga based on a true story?” The documentary series African Queens: Njinga, which is the inaugural episode of a Netflix docuseries produced by Jada Pinkett Smith’s studio, delves into the captivating narratives of prominent African rulers. Hosted by Paris Alston and Jeremy Siegel, both co-hosts of GBH News’ Morning Edition, this series aims to shed light on the remarkable historical figures who shaped Africa’s past. Premiering on February 16, 2023, African Queens: Njinga marks the beginning of an exploration into the true stories of some of Africa’s most intriguing leaders.

In 1624, the kingdom of Ndongo, located in West Central Africa (which corresponds to modern-day Angola), welcomed a remarkable new ruler named Njinga. Her reign marked a significant historical milestone as she became the first female leader in the region, often referred to as a “woman king.” Njinga’s extraordinary life and her pivotal role in Ndongo’s history are the focal points of the captivating docudrama series, “African Queens.” This compelling series, which explores the lives of prominent African female leaders, was both executive produced and narrated by the renowned actress and advocate, Jada Pinkett Smith. It premiered on Netflix on February 15, 2023, shedding light on the remarkable story of Njinga and other influential African queens.

After the completion of filming: The Remarkable Journey of the Original African Queen

The African Queen, made famous by the 1951 movie of the same name, underwent a fascinating transformation after the movie’s wrap. Contrary to what many may believe, the original African Queen was not preserved as a film relic. Instead, it was abandoned for some time before a stroke of luck led to its rediscovery and subsequent refurbishment into a fully operational tour boat. This incredible story unfolded on February 18, 2014, shedding light on the post-shooting life of one of the most iconic film sets in cinematic history.