Jennifer Hudson is set to play Aretha Franklin in an upcoming biopic and she hopes that her performance will make the late icon “proud.”
It was announced earlier this year that a movie following the life and career of Franklin would be out in 2020 and Hudson would be playing the lead. Respect will take a look at Franklin’s journey from a young church choir standout to a respected international superstar.
“I just hope I make her proud [and] do her justice,” Hudson told People Magazine about the role.
Franklin died last year at age 76. Hudson became one of the performers personally requested by a fatally ill Franklin to perform at her homegoing service.
The film’s producers reportedly have high hopes for the movie, which is being produced by Straight Outta Compton’s Scott Bernstein. Insiders have noted that it’s clear the film’s creators have their eyes set on awards season.
Respect is slated to hit theaters in August 2020.