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Book of Negroes star Aunjanue Ellis on the power of period dramas

Aunjanue Ellis on the much-anticipated adaptation of Lawrence Hill's acclaimed book.
The Book of Negroes, a television adaptation of Lawrence Hill's acclaimed book by the same name, had its television debut last night. Today, lead actress Aunjanue Ellis joins guest host Gill Deacon to discuss the much-anticipated miniseries and what the period drama can teach us about present day society. 


Ellis, who previously appeared in Oscar-nominated films The Help and Ray also reflects on the centrality of her character, Aminata Diallo; why she gravitates toward roles that re-frame history; and the dream role once played by Olivia de Havilland that she hopes to land in the future.

Click on the listen button above to hear the full audio, or watch the video version in the player. Plus, preview the show below.