Amistad Cast

Morgan Freeman portrays Theodore Joadson, an abolitionist leader who plays a crucial role in supporting the legal defense of the African captives.

Nigel Hawthorne takes on the role of Martin Van Buren, the 8th President of the United States, who becomes entangled in the political ramifications of the Amistad case.

Anthony Hopkins stars as John Quincy Adams, the former President and prominent lawyer who agrees to represent the Africans before the Supreme Court.

Djimon Hounsou embodies the character of Cinque, the leader of the African captives who spearheads the uprising on the Amistad and becomes a central figure in the legal proceedings.

Matthew McConaughey plays the role of Roger Sherman Baldwin, a young lawyer enlisted to defend the African captives and who ultimately becomes deeply involved in their cause.

David Paymer portrays Secretary John Forsyth, a member of President Van Buren's cabinet who influences the government's approach to the Amistad case.

Pete Postlethwaite takes on the character of Holabird, a zealous prosecutor determined to see the African captives convicted in court.

Stellan Skarsgård portrays Tappan, one of the abolitionists who supports the legal defense of the African captives and fights against slavery.

Razaaq Adoti embodies the character of Yamba, one of the African captives onboard the Amistad who becomes integral to the unfolding legal battle.

Abu Bakaar Fofanah takes on the role of Fala, another African captive involved in the uprising on the Amistad and subsequent legal troubles.

Anna Paquin portrays Queen Isabella, a young woman who provides crucial testimony during the trial regarding her encounters with the African captives.

Tomas Milian embodies the character of Calderon, a Spanish officer involved in the initial capture and transportation of the African captives onboard the Amistad.