Acclaimed photographer and filmmaker Misan Harriman has joined BBC Storyville‘s “White Man Walking” as executive producer, adding his distinctive voice to the documentary that chronicles one man’s journey through America’s fractured racial landscape.
The feature-length documentary follows white filmmaker Rob Bliss as he walks through Trump’s America wearing a Black Lives Matter T-shirt in the wake of George Floyd’s killing. His trek from rural highways to small towns across the Deep South reveals the visceral reactions his simple statement of solidarity provokes, exposing the depth of the nation’s ideological divisions while capturing rare moments of genuine human connection.
Harriman’s involvement brings considerable gravitas to the project. The British creative gained international recognition for his powerful photography during London’s Black Lives Matter protests and made history as the first Black male photographer to shoot a British Vogue cover. His directorial debut “The After,” starring David Oyelowo, earned him an Academy Award nomination.
“‘White Man Walking’ is not just a film, it’s a reckoning,” Harriman said. “I’m proud to join this project to help interrogate power, privilege, and allyship in ways that challenge, disarm, and ultimately help us all grow. This is about truth-telling, not comfort.”
The documentary poses challenging questions about why advocating for Black lives can trigger such intense responses, particularly in economically disadvantaged rural white communities. Co-directed by Bliss and Grierson Award winner Denise Alder, the film balances its examination of fear with a broader call for empathy and understanding.
Produced by London-based Osun Group in association with Doc Hearts, the documentary was commissioned by Lucie Kon for BBC Storyville. Mediawan Rights handles international distribution.
Osun Group founder Luti Fagbenle said, “Misan Harriman is one of our greatest storytellers. His deep commitment to social justice and unique visual perspective align perfectly with our mission to tell bold, impactful stories about racial and social injustice. His expertise will be invaluable in helping us share this powerful documentary.”
The production team includes BAFTA winner Andy Mundy-Castle (“White Nanny, Black Child”) and Emmy nominee Maxine Watson (“African Queens”) as executive producers, with Georgia Cassidy producing and Emmy winner Jordan Montminy editing. Afua Hirsch serves as associate director.
“White Man Walking” aired on BBC Four in May and on Arte in Germany and France in June. The documentary is currently available on BBC iPlayer.