Aretha Franklin's musical career has spanned fifty years, but in that time, there's never been a single film made about her life or career - until now.
Deadline reports that a biopic on the life and career of the Queen of Soul is now officially under way and, what's more, Franklin herself has handpicked none other than Dreamgirls alum Jennifer Hudson to play her.
Hudson was introduced at Columbia Records president Clive Davis' pre-Grammys party and confirmed long-held rumours that Hudson was to take on the role. While no director has been attached as of yet, names like Taylor Hackford - who directed Jamie Foxx to his Oscar for Ray - is said to be one of the names in contention.
Meanwhile, Harvey Mason Jr. - one of the producers on Dreamgirls - will be acting in a similar role here, whilst Scott Bernstein - who worked on Straight Outta Compton, the biopic on the careers of NWA - is also producing on the Aretha Franklin biopic.
No release date has been confirmed, however it's understood that MGM, the studio behind the film, are moving quickly to secure both a director and screenwriter.
Via Deadline
