The talk of an Aretha Franklin biopic has been in the air for quite some time. Back in 2011, it was highly reported that Oscar Award winning actress, Halle Barry was under consideration. The following year, four-time Tony nominee, Audra McDonald’s name was also in the mix to play the Queen of Soul. Now, after a long pause in the project, it was announced by Clive Davis, during his pre-Grammy party in honor of Jay-Z, that Jennifer Hudson would be playing the lead role of Aretha Franklin.
According to Rolling Stone, before Hudson’s live performance at Saturday’s gala, Davis mentioned, “when the biopic of the great Aretha Franklin is filmed next year, the artist anointed by Aretha herself to play her is the next performer.” While this isn’t the first time Jennifer Hudson’s name has been suggested for the role, talks have been circulating that acquisition and financing of the biopic is currently being conducted by MGM, according to Deadline. “Straight Otta Compton” film producer, Scott Berstein and Harvey Mason Jr., music producer for “Dreamgirls” will also be part of the Franklin project. MGM is currently in the works of locking down a screenwriter and director
So, in light of these developments, what do “you” think of Jennifer Hudson playing the role of Aretha Franklin? Do you think it was a good choice? Should she have chosen another actress and/or singer? Let me know what you think?
Hope West is a music enthusiast and music photographer who has captured artists like B.B. King, Janet Jackson, Teddy Riley and many others. A life long lover of music, Hope is a graduate of Full Sail University where she studied music engineering. She’s also a proud “Florida Girl” born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. and currently resides in Atlanta, GA as a “Georgia Peach”. Hope is known for her creativity, sense of humor and quirky perfectionism. Artist(s) that make her freak out as a music fan: Sheila E., Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Quincy Jones.
