Watch John Lewis: Celebrating a Hero

John Lewis: Celebrating a Hero from Amazon Addon is a moving tribute to the life and legacy of the late civil rights icon and Congressman John Lewis. The show features a range of powerful speeches, poignant musical performances, and heartfelt interviews with friends, family members, and other prominent figures who knew and admired Lewis.

The special was hosted by Gayle King, who is known for her work as a co-anchor on CBS This Morning, and also featured commentary from other well-known celebrities like Tyler Perry and Trevor Noah. Throughout the one-hour special, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of John Lewis, who was born in Troy, Alabama in 1940 and went on to become one of the most influential figures in the fight for civil rights in America.

The show begins with a heartwarming scene of John Lewis, then in his 70s, dancing joyfully at a campaign rally. This sets the tone for the rest of the show, which is both celebratory and reflective, as viewers follow Lewis's journey from his early days as a civil rights activist to his later years as a Congressman, where he continued to fight for justice until his death in 2020.

One of the most moving parts of the show is the collection of interviews with Lewis's family and friends. They offer intimate glimpses into Lewis's character and personal life, and reveal the profound impact that he had on the people around him. We hear from his sister, brother, and son, as well as his colleagues in Congress, who share stories about his unwavering commitment to justice, his deep faith, and his unshakeable optimism.

The musical performances in John Lewis: Celebrating a Hero are also a key component of the show. We see tributes from gospel singers like BeBe Winans and Yolanda Adams, as well as stirring performances from other musicians like Common, who offers a spoken-word tribute to Lewis set against a backdrop of images from the Civil Rights movement. There are also performances from Wynton Marsalis and Jon Batiste, who play a duet of "Amazing Grace" in honor of Lewis's memory.

Perhaps the most compelling part of the show, however, is the footage of John Lewis himself. Interspersed throughout the special are clips of Lewis speaking at rallies, testifying in Congress, and leading marches, all of which serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible impact that he had on the civil rights movement in America. Viewers are also treated to a few glimpses of Lewis's personal life, including footage of him visiting his childhood home in Troy, Alabama, and interacting with school children in his district.

Overall, John Lewis: Celebrating a Hero is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the most important figures in American history. The special does an excellent job of balancing the celebratory with the somber, and offers a moving reflection on the life and legacy of John Lewis that is sure to inspire viewers in their own fights for justice and equality. It is a fitting tribute to a true hero and a must-watch for anyone interested in civil rights, politics, or American history.