Queen Latifah has been tapped to portray the legendary blues singer Bessie Smith, who roared into the 20’s and seduced the 30’s with her vibrant voice and unique display of eclecticism that garnered her the title “Empress of the Blues”.
Actress Adepero Oduye is a relevant player in an industry that demands the best and challenges your self-preservation.
In 2011 Oduye flexed her acting chops and won rave reviews for her affecting portrayal of an African-American teenager who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance as she embraces her lesbian identity.
Looks like Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, Alfre Woodard, Jill Scott and the newest stars on the horizon, Pariah’s Adepero Oduye and Broadway darling Condola Rashad who also happens to be the daughter of Phylicia Rashad are poised to fill in the shoes of the impressive cast from the 1989 tearjerker, Steel Magnolias, the film that helped solidify actress Julia Roberts’ career.