MSNBC, in collaboration with executive producer Rachel Maddow, is set to premiere Andrew Young: The Dirty Work, a feature-length documentary chronicling the life and extraordinary legacy of civil rights leader Andrew Young. The film will air on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET.
The documentary explores Young’s remarkable journey, from his early work as a key aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to his tenure as a U.S. congressman, U.N. ambassador, and mayor of Atlanta. Through in-depth interviews, archival footage, and never-before-seen material, the film highlights both the public achievements and the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped pivotal moments in American history.
The title, The Dirty Work, refers to Young’s own description of the often-overlooked tasks necessary to advance the Civil Rights Movement: organizing communities, coordinating logistics for marches and campaigns, and managing political strategy—all work that required dedication, resilience, and courage.
At 93, Young reflects candidly on his experiences, recounting challenges, setbacks, and triumphs that provide viewers with an intimate understanding of the human side of social change. The documentary also examines how his approach to leadership—building coalitions, navigating political obstacles, and working quietly behind the scenes—offers lessons for contemporary activism and governance.
Rachel Maddow, known for her incisive journalism and commitment to deep storytelling, serves as an executive producer, bringing her expertise in contextualizing political and social history for modern audiences. In interviews, Maddow emphasized that the film draws a connection between the strategies of the Civil Rights era and current efforts to advance social justice, highlighting the enduring relevance of Young’s work.
Andrew Young: The Dirty Work not only celebrates Young’s contributions but also serves as a broader meditation on the often-unseen labor that sustains movements for change. By shining a light on both the victories and the challenges, the documentary underscores that meaningful progress is often the result of sustained, meticulous effort—and that history remembers both the leaders and those who performed the crucial work behind the scenes.
Why It Matters:
- Provides a rare, personal perspective on a civil rights legend.
- Offers insight into political strategy and coalition-building that remains relevant today.
- Highlights the importance of recognizing the unsung efforts that make social change possible.
- Bridges historical events with modern movements, inspiring new generations of activists and civic leaders.
