BBC announces the premiere of "The Trials of Pa Salieu", a brand-new documentary that follows the British-Gambian musician Pa Salieu at a pivotal moment as he attempts to rebuild his life and career after prison. The title will air on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer on Tuesday 24th March.
With exclusive access to Pa, his family and his team, the documentary captures the Coventry rapper as he prepares to return to live performance while navigating the realities of life on probation - including curfews, travel restrictions and the risk of recall. Cameras follow him through studio sessions, rehearsals and backstage preparations as he works towards a major comeback performance at Glastonbury, while uncertainty looms over whether he will be permitted to tour in Europe.
The film also reflects on the events of 2018 that resulted in the hospitalisation of one man and the death of Pa’s best friend, with Pa revisiting diaries written during his time in prison. From the day of his release - when he heads straight to the studio - to his Mercury Prize Album of the Year nomination for "Afrikan Alien", the film captures the pressures, decisions and personal reflections shaping the next chapter of one of the UK’s most exciting artists.
"The Trials of Pa Salieu" (1x45’), produced by Rogan Productions for BBC Three and iPlayer, is the directorial debut for filmmaker Flynn Esther, who is part of the BBC’s New Directors scheme.
BBC to Premiere "The Trials of Pa Salieu" documentary about British-Gambian musician
