AN acclaimed book about Muhammad Ali, written by The National columnist Stuart Cosgrove, is set to be made into a two-part documentary by the Smithsonian Channel.
Based on Cosgrove’s book Cassius X: A Legend In The Making, the US documentary channel has confirmed that the feature, named Cassius X: Becoming Ali, is set to be directed by award-winning film director Muta’Ali.
In his book, which was published in 2020, the Scottish author and broadcaster casts light and intrigue on Ali’s illustrious career as sporting legend, rights campaigner, entertainer, and both global and personal hero to so many.
Cosgrove follows Ali’s transformation, as he moved from identifying as Clay, to Cassius X, and then later Muhammad Ali after his conversion to Islam, all underlined by one of the most turbulent periods in American civil rights history.
The documentary is scheduled for broadcast in Britain and America later this year.
In an interview with The Courier, Cosgrove said: “The response to the book has been phenomenal and it’s still selling as hardback with a paperback out for Christmas."
“Now that Covid restrictions are lifting, I will be able to get on the road to promote it, including a return event at the Edinburgh Festival.
“The film and TV rights were acquired by the Scottish production company Two Rivers, who sold the idea of a long-form documentary to the Smithsonian Channel, which is part of the Viacom Corporation.
“The director shot the film throughout the USA and came to Glasgow for the final edit. It’s not finished yet but it is already in great shape.”
READ MORE: Scotland's Two Rivers Media to release Cassius X: Becoming Ali in US
The documentary will feature exclusive interviews with Attallah Shabazz, Malcolm X’s eldest daughter; R&B singer and girlfriend of Ali in the 1960s, Dee Dee Sharp; Jim Lampley, one of Ali’s closest friends and broadcasting icon; Thomas Hauser, who acted as his biographer, along with perspectives from prominent journalists operating in Ali's circles during the 1960s and 1970s.
Cosgrove’s book, Cassius X: A Legend In The Making, is published by Birlinn Books and can be purchased here.
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