Before the iconic portrayal of Thurgood Marshall on the silver screen by the actor known for Black Panther, Marshall had already etched his place in history as a seminal figure in the civil rights movement. The new documentary, “Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect,” invites audiences to delve into the significant impact of Marshall's work on the American legal system. Premiering on PBS, this film provides a profound look at the first African American Supreme Court Justice, whose legal acumen and dedication to justice transformed the nation.

The film features interviews with esteemed authors, legal scholars, and family members, charting Marshall’s journey from his early days in segregated Baltimore to his pivotal role at the Supreme Court. “Legally speaking, he’s one of the founding fathers,” remarked author Wil Haygood in the documentary. Viewers are treated to an exploration of Marshall's formative years, where trips to court with his father sparked his passion for law, leading to a stellar academic career at Lincoln University and Howard University School of Law.

Known affectionately as “Mr. Civil Rights,” Marshall’s legal prowess was evident as he won 29 of the 32 cases he argued before the Supreme Court, including the landmark Brown v. Board of Education, which ended racial segregation in public schools. His relentless pursuit of equality and justice didn’t wane, even in the face of significant resistance, setting a precedent for future generations.

Sherrilyn Ifill of Howard Law highlighted, “The work and life of Thurgood Marshall literally changed this country in ways that are incredibly positive and powerful and that still resonate today.” After years of groundbreaking rulings and advocacy, Marshall's contributions were further recognized when he was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1961, became the Solicitor General in 1965, and ascended to the Supreme Court in 1967, serving with distinction for 24 years.

Executive producer Stanley Nelson emphasized the timeliness of Marshall's story in today's socio-political climate, stating, “His story has always been relevant and timely. But I think that now, when we have a real attack on history, especially African American history, it becomes more relevant than ever.”

“Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect” is set to premiere on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 10 p.m. ET on PBS, PBS.org, and the PBS app. This documentary is more than just a retelling of historical events; it’s a reminder of the enduring impact of a true superhero of American justice, whose legacy continues to influence the fight for civil rights and equality.