Aretha Franklin Biopic Starring Jennifer Hudson Delayed Until August 2021

Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson

Aretha Franklin Biopic Starring Jennifer Hudson Delayed Until August 2021

Jennifer Hudson’s Aretha Franklin biopic is the latest film to be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to reports, MGM Studios has postponed the release of Respect by 7 months. The film, which was set to be released at the top of the new year on January 15th, will now be available to the public on August 13th, 2021. This is the second time that Respect’s release date has been moved due to the coronavirus pandemic. Initially, the film was scheduled to premiere in August 2020.

As we previously reported, Jennifer Hudson recently spoke on Aretha Franklin personally picking her for the biopic. She said,

“I’m just honored that she picked me to play her. I mean, who can say that? And again, I would have never done it without her wishes.”

Jennifer Hudson also spoke on actress Cynthia Erivo playing Aretha Franklin in an upcoming series. She said,

“I know that Aretha was adamant that [her life] be a film. If it’s not a film, it’s nothing.”

Hudson secured the role in 2018 and spoke on landing the iconic spot:

“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.’”

What are your thoughts on the film Respect being pushed back again? Let us know in the comments.