If You Don't Know - Netflix’s Cleopatra: What’s all the drama?

Netflix’s Cleopatra: What’s all the drama?

Download Netflix’s Cleopatra: What’s all the drama?

We’re talking about one thing today… Netflix’s new docudrama series on Queen Cleopatra, which has a black mixed actor, Adele James, playing the lead role.

Adele joins De-Graft to talk about the joys of playing the part, but also the backlash and racism she’s received. In Egypt, there’s been upset and accusations that her casting aims to "erase the Egyptian identity".

So, who was Queen Cleopatra and what was her heritage? Historian Joyce Dunbar also drops in and shares the facts.

We want to hear from our listeners… Drop us a line, say hello, or even let us know what you want to hear on the pod. Our WhatsApp number is +44 0330 123 9480. Remember to start your message with IYDK, to make sure we see it.

Presenter: De-Graft Mensah
Producer: Kamilah McInnis
Researcher: Paige Neal-Holder
Sound: Kamilah McInnis and Dave O’Neill
Editor: Alison Gee

Published on Thursday, 11th May 2023.

Available Podcasts from If You Don't Know

Subscribe to If You Don't Know

We are not the BBC, we only list available podcasts. To find out more about the programme including episodes available on BBC iPlayer, go to the If You Don't Know webpage.