Getty Images
Earlier this year, the Duke of Sussex and TV mogul Oprah Winfrey announced they had teamed up as co-creators and executive producers of a new mental health documentary series, set to launch on Apple TV+ next year.
And now in a recent interview with podcast host and journalist Bryony Gordon, Prince Harry has revealed more details about the show, and what inspired him to create it.
In 2017 Harry sat down with Gordon for an interview where he opened up about his mental health and how he dealt with the trauma following the death of his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997.
WATCH: Prince Harry & the heartbreaking way he dealt with his mother’s death. Story continues below…
Speaking with the journalist again on Wednesday for the Daily Telegraph Harry said, “When I did your podcast two years ago the response made me realise what an impact sharing my story could have, and what an impact other stores can have for so many who are suffering silently.”
Adding, “If the viewers can relate to the pain and perhaps the experience, then it could save lives, as we will focus on prevention and positive outcomes.”
He also shared that he and Oprah had had many meetings and were “assembling subject matter experts” to help guide the series.
“The facts and science exist and we deserve to know it all.”
Harry also admitted that despite coming a long way since the years of struggle following his mother’s death, there was still a lot left to figure out and work through.
“What I learned and continue to learn in the space of mental health, mental illness and self-awareness is that all roads lead back to our mental wellbeing, how we look after ourselves and each other,” he said.
Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry have teamed up to co-create a documentary series about mental health and wellbeing. (Images: Getty)
The palace made the announcement Harry and Oprah were teaming up on the project on April 10th on Instagram, posting an extensive caption explaining the concept of the documentary series.
“The dynamic multi-part documentary series will focus on both mental illness and mental wellness, inspiring viewers to have an honest conversation about the challenges each of us faces, and how to equip ourselves with the tool to not simply survive, but to thrive,” the caption explains.
“The commitment builds on The Duke of Sussex’s long-standing work on issues and initiatives regarding mental health, where he has candidly shared personal experience and advocated for those who silently suffer, empowering them to get the help and support they deserve.”
Prince Harry is quoted saying he truly believes that good mental health – mental fitness – is the key to powerful leadership, productive communities and a purpose-driven self.
“It is a huge responsibility to get this right as we bring you the facts, the science and the awareness of the subject that is so relevant during these times.
“Our hope is that this series will be positive, enlightening and inclusive – sharing global stories of unparalleled human spirit fighting back from the darkest places, and the opportunity for us to understand ourselves and those around us better,” he continues.
“I am incredibly proud to be working alongside Oprah on this vital series.”
In reply to the Instagram post Oprah said she was “delighted” to be partnering with Harry.
“Hope we shed a lot of Light. And change some lives,” she commented.
According to People, Harry and Oprah will serve as co-creators and executive producers of the series and will also include Kahane Cooperman at the helm, a former co-executive producer of The Daily Show with John Stewart, and will be produced and directed by Dawn Porter and Asif Kapadia, who was the filmmaker behind Amy, the biopic about the late singer Amy Winehouse.
