How the Adamsons changed our attitude to animal conservation

Joy Adamson’s book Born Free caused a sensation when it was first published in March 1960. As well as topping the New York Times bestseller list, the book and its later film adaptation made a massive impact on conservation and science.

The programme marks the 50th anniversary of Born Free’s publication by revisiting the inspirational story of Joy and her husband George, a game warden turned wildlife observationist and author. The entertaining account of the couple’s experiences and adventures in Africa as they raised orphaned lioness cub Elsa, and their success in training her to survive in the wild, won the hearts of people around the world and completely changed perceptions of human and lion interaction.

The extraordinary relationship between the lioness and her adopted human ‘parents’ caused a seismic shift in popular attitudes towards animals and left a legacy that is as controversial today as it is fondly celebrated.

This compelling documentary was filmed on location in
Africa and draws on extraordinary archive footage over
the course of 50 years. Featuring contributions from their many friends, associates and contemporaries – including David Attenborough – The Born Free Legacy gives a remarkable insight into the personal lives and work of a couple who left an ongoing legacy to the natural world.


Director
Alex Parkinson
Executive Producers
Harry Marshall
Laura Marshall

DURATION
1 x 60