1st Look: Jennifer Hudson As Aretha Franklin In ‘Respect’ Biopic [Teaser]

1st Look: Jennifer Hudson As Aretha Franklin In ‘Respect’ Biopic [Teaser]

R-E-S-P-E-C-T! Jennifer Hudson’s shared a first look at her highly anticipated role for the upcoming Aretha Franklin biopic, RESPECT. In the 44-second trailer, Hudson shines as the former American Idol alum sings the “Queen of Soul’s” iconic tracks with “Respect,” and “What you want/Baby, I got it.”

Under the direction of Liesl Tommy, Respect is inspired by the true story of Franklin and her rise to fame. Hudson is reportedly set to star alongside Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess, Saycon Sengbloh, Hailey Kilgore, Skye Dakota Turner, Tate Donovan and Mary J. Blige.

As previously reported, Aretha died at the age of 76 on August 16, 2018, in Detroit after suffering from pancreatic cancer.  

The producer of the film, Harvey Mason, Jr., commended Hudson as he previously explained that she was Aretha’s top pick to play her.

“They both sing with a lot of emotion. They both sing with a lot of range and power. It’s really hard to compare anyone with Aretha, though. I think the good thing about Jennifer is that was Aretha’s pick to play her. … There was a lot of discussion about a lot of people, but Aretha was adamant that it be Jennifer.”

J.Hud

Hudson also spoke about playing Aretha last year and said,

“It’s always been my dream to play Aretha, and it’s actually happening. It blows my mind. I’ve always looked up to Aretha and to portray her—I cannot even speak about it because it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s a huge task.’”

Check out the trailer below:

What are your thoughts so far? Let us know in the comments!