Mandela death stuns premiere audience

The audience at last night's premiere of Nelson Mandela biopic 'Mandela: The Long Walk To Freedom' were stunned to discover that the death of the former South African president had been announced while they were watching the movie.

[Elba: Mandela a massive challenge]

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were among guests of honour at the premiere in London's Leicester Square last night.

The shocked audience at the screening were informed of Mandela's death as the film's credits rolled. A two-minute silence was then held.

On leaving the screening, Prince William said: “It's extremely sad and tragic news. We were just reminded what an extraordinary and inspiring man Nelson Mandela was.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family right now.”

Mandela's daughter Zindzi was also a guest of honour at the premiere, and was reportedly overcome with emotion at hearing the news.

She had described her father's condition as 'fine, but frail' on the red carpet only hours before.

Idris Elba, who plays Mandela in the film, was also in attendance, as was Naomie Harris who plays Winnie Mandela.

Elba did not address the crowd or the press after hearing the news, but in a statement said: "What an honour it was to step into the shoes of Nelson Mandela and portray a man who defied odds, broke down barriers, and championed human rights before the eyes of the world.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

He later added: “I am stunned at this very moment, in mourning with the rest of the world and Madiba’s family. We have lost one of the greatest human beings to have walked this earth, I only feel honoured to be associated with him. He is in a better place now.”

Harvey Weinstein, who produced the film, said: "One of the privileges of making movies is having the opportunity to immortalise those who have made a profound impact on humanity. We count ourselves unspeakably fortunate to have been immersed in Nelson Mandela's story and legacy.

"It's been an honour to have been granted such proximity to a man who will go down as one of history's greatest freedom fighters and advocates for justice.

"I have had the privilege of spending time with President Mandela and I can say his sense of humour was as great as his optimism. We are deeply saddened by his loss; our hearts go out to his family and the entire South African nation."

Several attendees other also tweeted about the news.