Benedict Cumberbatch reads one of Alexei Navalny's final letters

Last month Vladimir Putin’s most prominent critic, Alexei Navalny, paid the ultimate price for his beliefs, dying in a West Siberian prison after years of relentless campaigning against corruption and a near-fatal poisoning. By the time of his death, Navalny had been imprisoned for more than two years, during which time he wrote to his supporters and the wider world through letters shared on his social media accounts. This is one of the last messages he wrote.

Benedict Cumberbatch joined us to read it at Letters Live at the Royal Albert Hall on 6th March 2024.

[Batseba-ed]

Well done! Navalny's letters from prison need to be published.

[ljrgi]

I've watched a lot of footage of mourners lining up to pay their respects to Mr. Navalny in the last week. For me one of the most touching moments was when a small crowd was chanting, not loudly but distinctly, "Ukrainians are good people." Such a simple sentiment but also such an act of courage to show that the spirit of humanity is still alive in Russia-that over a century of having their noblest ideals betrayed by cynical politicians has not extinguished that flame. Here's to a Russia that finds strength in friendship with its neighbors instead of destroying them, and where honorable politicians like Mr. Navalny flourish.

[nikkan]

From a russian, thank you, mr.Cumberbatch.

[Chaddlee]

A letter written to the whole world right now.

[angelacasey]

I saw this performed last night at the Royal Albert Hall. After they played a musical tribute on the organ. It was a truly magnificent tribute to a brave and noble man.

[gerdaziegler]

Best thing to happen! Final letter, his testament, translated and conveyed to mankind! Thank you, Alexei Navalnyi, I bow my head!

[sdw]

We are a Russian family, living in Berlin. I was listening this letter with a tears in my eyes. Highly appreciated for this, Mr. Cumberbatch! All kind people must unite and stand up together against this New Reich, based on pain and punishment!

[sandyr]

Benedict Cumberbatch - THANK YOU for doing such an awesome job honoring Alexei Navalny.

[rowanhaigh]

I’m extremely grateful that this letter has been made widely available. ❤

[СергейЕпарский]

Thank you, Mr.Cumberbatch! From Russia with love!

[sabinevoigt]

I had tears in my eyes. Navalny was such an amazing man and the hope for his country. And other countries as well. Citizens of free democrataic countries: Never take the privilege of a true democratic government for granted. Cherish and protect it. I am so greatful to have been born in such country. (64yo) Love from Germany

[leebridges]

Stunning. Thank you. I want every American to see this video again and again and again.

[judyweeks]

A very humbling experience. One of the most courageous men who ever walked this earth.

[johannebaker]

We should widely publish this in the uk

[govorkaya]

Thank you for reading this.
Alexey Navalny's death has broken my heart. We'll never forget him, and we'll be fighting for his ideas alongside his widow, Yulia Navalnaya.

[graceygrumble]

"I have my country and my convictions.. and I do not want to renounce or betray either.."
Alexei Anatolyevich Navalny

Now, there is a quote which will live on.

[alenap]

Это прекрасное чтение. Но невозможно не думать о том, что чтобы быть услышанным, Алексею пришлось погибнуть. Как бы я хотела, чтобы он был жив, Господи

[THE-X-Force]

_"I have my country and my convictions.._ _and I do not want to renounce or betray either.."_
These are moving words. The words of a patriot. If you were told it was a quote from one of America's founding fathers .. would any of us even question it? I wouldn't. What a tragedy. ☮

[rimakavaliauskyte]

Grateful to Benedict Cumberbatch for reading this letter!!! Victory is enevitable!

[denesem]

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. That's what Alexei Navalny did. We must not give up and hold onto our convictions.