LONDON — People attending the London premiere of a new film about Nelson Mandela were told of his death as the closing credits rolled.
Stopping the screening of Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom was discussed, but Mandela’s daughters asked that the premiere continue, a film spokesman said on Thursday night.
Producer Anant Singh announced Mandela’s death once the film was over, and called for a moment of silence.
The audience included the film’s stars and Prince William and his wife, Kate.
In depth: Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela 1918-2013
News and views on the death, and life, of former president Nelson Mandela"It was extremely sad and tragic news," Prince William said upon leaving the film.
"We were just reminded of what an extraordinary and inspiring man Nelson Mandela was and my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family right now," he said.
It is believed to be the first time a major royal has given an unscripted response to a large news event.
Zindzi Mandela, Mandela’s daughter, also was there. Earlier, when asked on the red carpet on her way into the premiere about her father, she had said: "My father is fine."
Members of the audience left the cinema in silence and "shock", according to a report in the Daily Express.
British actor Idris Elba, who plays Mandela on the big screen, said on the red carpet that he hoped the former president would live long enough to see the film.
"I think he (Mandela) has seen parts of the film but ultimately it's about his life, he's been there, he's done it — so he might not even need to see it," he said.
Nelson Mandela was 95.
Sapa-AP, Sapa-AFP
