Queen Latifah will return to the small screen tonight (Saturday, May 16) to star in the title role HBO’s biopic about late blues and jazz icon Bessie Smith.
The film follows the famed blues and jazz singer through her life, from growing up in Chattanooga, Tennessee to her early and unfortunate death in the late 1930’s.
“Bessie” also stars Academy Award-winner Mo’Nique as blues traiblaizer Ma Rainey – who paved the way for Smith’s success in the music industry.
Bessie Smith established herself as one of the most iconic figures in the jazz and blues scene in the early part of the 1900’s.
Before her tragic and untimely death at the age of 43, Smith solidified her musical legacy with classics like “St. Louis Blues” and “Empty Bed Blues.”
Taking on the title role of “Bessie” is not Latifah’s first foray in to a role with musical demands. Her role as Mama Morton in the hit film adaptation of the musical “Chicago” earned her an Academy Award nomination.
Bessie premieres tonight at 7 p.m. CST on HBO. For more information, visit www.hbo.com/movies/bessie
