Oscar and Grammy winner Jennifer Hudson is set to play Aretha Franklin in an upcoming biopic at MGM about the life of the Queen of Soul.
Hudson was reportedly picked by Franklin to play the role. Producer Clive Davis, who has had a long professional relationship with Franklin, announced the news at his pre-Grammys party this weekend.
Hudson sang Franklin classics Think and Respect as part of her performance at the party. Franklin is one of the most honored artists in Grammy Award history, and is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the NAACP Hall of Fame, the Gospel music Hall of Fame and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Scott Bernstein (“Straight Outta Compton) will produce the film Harvey Mason Jr. will serve as music producer. A writer and director will soon be sought.
