Is The Big Cigar based on a true story? Explained

The Big Cigar, a new limited series from Apple TV released on May 17, 2024, dives into the riveting tale of Huey P. Newton's escape to Cuba. It blends the vibrant atmosphere of 1970s America with the stark realities of revolutionary politics, FBI operations, and Hollywood's unexpected role in it all.

The series may seem like a work of fiction, but it is, in fact, rooted in a true story. Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, fled to Cuba in 1974 with the help of Hollywood producer Bert Schneider, who staged a fake movie production of The Big Cigar to aid Newton's escape from the FBI.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers. Reader's discretion is advised.

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The Real Story Behind The Big Cigar

Huey P. Newton, co-founder and leader of the Black Panther Party, fled the United States for Cuba in 1974. His escape was orchestrated by Hollywood producer Bert Schneider, who staged a fake series production to aid Newton’s departure. This daring plan, involving the creation of a non-existent film also named The Big Cigar, provided Newton with a plausible cover story as he evaded the FBI.

Huey P. Newton (Image via YouTube/Apple TV)

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The Birth of the Black Panther Party

In October 1966, Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale, then college students, established the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense in Oakland, California. The organization was a direct response to racial tensions and police brutality against African Americans.

Inspired by Malcolm X, the Black Panther Party aimed to empower black communities through self-defense and self-determination, quickly becoming a significant force in the civil rights movement.

Huey P. Newton (Image via YouTube/Apple TV)

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Newton's Legal Troubles and Flight to Cuba

Newton's troubles with the law began on October 28, 1967, when he was involved in a shootout with Oakland police officers, resulting in the death of Officer John Frey. Convicted of voluntary manslaughter in 1968, Newton's case became a symbol of racial injustice, sparking nationwide protests and the Free Huey campaign.

His conviction was overturned in 1970, but legal issues continued to plague him. In 1974, while on parole, he faced accusations of murdering 17-year-old Kathleen Smith and was linked to other violent incidents.

Fearing a biased legal system and further targeting by the authorities, including the FBI's COINTELPRO program designed to undermine activist groups, Newton sought refuge in Cuba. Bert Schneider, a fervent supporter of the Black Panther Party and a famous Hollywood producer, offered to help.

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Bert Schneider and the Escape Plan

Bert Schneider, renowned for producing films like Easy Rider, devised a bold scheme to assist Newton. Using his Hollywood connections, Schneider created a fake production company and pretended to shoot a film starring Newton. This alibi allowed Newton to move covertly as he prepared to leave the country. Schneider's dedication to the cause and his ability to mobilize sympathetic filmmakers and actors were crucial in executing the plan.

The massive escape (Image via YouTube/Apple TV)

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Newton's Time in Cuba

Newton successfully escaped to Cuba in 1974, though the details of his journey remain largely unknown. In interviews, Newton preferred not to discuss how he reached Cuba. His exile lasted three years, during which his political influence waned, and the Black Panther Party faced internal conflicts and power struggles.

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Return and Death

In 1977, Newton returned to the United States to face the charges against him, which were eventually dropped. Despite earning a Ph.D. in social philosophy in 1980, Newton's later years were marred by continued legal and personal troubles. He was murdered in 1989 by Tyrone Robinson of the Black Guerilla Family, a rival black power organization.

The Big Cigar (Image via YouTube/Apple TV)

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The Making of The Big Cigar

Joshuah Bearman chronicled the extraordinary tale of Newton's escape and the involvement of Hollywood figures like Schneider, which served as the basis for the Apple TV series. Bearman, also known for his article that inspired the Oscar-winning film Argo, highlights the intersection of political activism and cinematic subterfuge.

The Big Cigar on Apple TV captures the essence of an era marked by political upheaval and the lengths to which people would go to support a cause. The series underscores the complex legacy of Newton and the Black Panther Party, blending historical fact with the drama.

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The Big Cigar was released on May 17, 2024, and is available to watch on Apple TV.