Raven Goodwin Lands Role As Hattie McDaniel In ‘Behind The Smile’ Biopic

Raven Goodwin Lands Role As Hattie McDaniel In ‘Behind The Smile’ Biopic

Raven Goodwin has inked a new role!

The Being Mary Jane star landed the role as iconic actress Hattie McDaniel for the upcoming biopic Behind The Smile. Hattie McDaniel made history as the first African American to take home an Academy Award. She won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Gone With The Wind in 1940. Despite her win, she wasn’t allowed to sit with the other guests because of segregation rules. She also faced lots of criticism, including from the black community, for playing a maid in the legendary movie. She died of breast cancer in 1952 at 57 years old.

Behind The Smile is an independent project with McCoy-Lankford of Hillionaire Productions and Global Genesis Group on board as producers. Global Genesis Group will also oversee sales. Gregory Blair wrote the screenplay.

McCoy-Lankford touted Raven Goodwin’s lead role and said:

“Raven Goodwin is such a phenomenal talent and a gift to this project. In our first meeting on Zoom, she already showed the kind of passion that is befitting such a complex and iconic character as Hattie McDaniel was.”

President of Global Genesis Group Rick Romano added:

“It’s exciting to be involved in telling the story of a woman who is a part of American history as well as movie history. Now, more than ever, in a still divisive time in our country’s relationship with race, the story of Hattie McDaniel is meaningful and current.”

He continued:

“Individuals such as Hattie McDaniel were trailblazers in their struggle for equality, and their stories need to be told for our country’s understanding of inclusiveness and tolerance. We are thrilled to have Raven Goodwin play Hattie McDaniel and provide an honest look into the triumphs and tragedies of her life.”

Raven Goodwin

Raven Goodwin, who also starred in Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel, expressed her excitement of playing the role on social media.

“This is WILD! So happy to announce that I’ll be portraying THE Hattie McDaniel. This is so meaningful— in so many ways! Just know I’m ready to take on the responsibility! Much love!!!”

What are your thoughts on Raven Goodwin playing Hattie McDaniel? Comment and let us know.