Robin Roberts has shared a preview of the Lifetime biopic Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia.
The Good Morning America anchor, who produced the film, narrates a video about the life of trailblazing gospel singer and civil rights activist Mahalia Jackson.
“I am thrilled to bring this important, beautiful story—Mahalia’s story—to Lifetime,” Roberts says in the video. “I cannot wait! You’re gonna have the feels.”
Related Story: Lifetime Announces Full Cast, Premiere Date for Mahalia Jackson Biopic
SAG Award and Grammy Award-winning actress Danielle Brooks leads the cast as Jackson alongside her co-stars Jason Dirden (Fences), Tony nominee Joaquina Kalukango (Slave Play), Olivia Washington (The Butler) and Rob Demery (Lovecraft Country), as previously reported.
Dirden plays Russell Roberts, a music-loving reverend who falls for Mahalia when they first meet in the late 1940s. Kalukango takes on the role of Mildred, Jackson’s longtime pianist. Washington portrays Estelle, a piano teacher Mahalia meets at church who goes on to become her lifelong friend and Demery portrays Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Women’s stories matter. Black women’s stories matter. Lifetime recognizes that—sees us, hears us, believes in us,” Roberts said about her project with the network.
The movie is executive produced by Robin Roberts and Linda Berman under Roberts’ Rock’n Robin Productions. Lincoln Square Productions is also part of the project.
Tony Award winner Kenny Leon directs and co-executive produces the film. Brooks is also a co-executive producer for the biopic.
Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia premieres Saturday, April 3 on Easter weekend at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Lifetime.
Watch the preview clip below:
https://youtu.be/bL1LvfIw1uY
Discover more from Urban Hollywood 411
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
