Last week media reports surfaced stating that Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry had agreed to portray the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, in a biopic. Berry put those rumors to rest on the 2011 Golden Globe red carpet, stating that she was not involved in such talks. When asked about starring in the film, Berry stated, "I can't sing! If I could carry a tune, I'd consider it. Someone should tell Aretha that I can't do her justice."
Not being able to sing didn't stop Berry when she portrayed singer Zola Taylor of the Platters fame in 1998's Why Do Fools Fall in Love. She should just keep it real and say it's bad casting. There are a number of women in Hollywood who would do well with that character, but Berry is not one of them. Jennifer Hudson, Anika Noni Rose or Kerry Washington playing Aretha Franklin would be awesome!
How sad is it that Franklin's people have set their sights on Berry, even leaking misinformation in the process? They have even said that Denzel Washington is interested in playing her father, the late Rev. C.L. Franklin. Washington's people also said that they are not involved in talks about the film. The Queen of Soul needs to respect the process and show some respect to better-suited actors.
Read more at Shadow and Act.
In other news: Marion Barry to Chair Committee That Assists Ex-Offenders.