Jennifer Hudson Shades Actress Cynthia Erivo’s Portrayal Of Aretha Franklin, Calls Her Little ‘TV Series’ Nothing Because It’s Not A Film

Actress Jennifer Hudson is highly anticipated to be in awards consideration for her upcoming portrayal of the icon Aretha Franklin in MGM’s Respect. The singer and Oscar winning actress was personally selected by Aretha herself to play her in an official capacity. It’s becoming clear which one the Queen of Soul gave her blessing to.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jennifer Hudson (@iamjhud) on Oct 15, 2020 at 9:22am PDT

Hudson told Entertainment Weekly about the moment that Aretha herself anointed her for the role. “We met in New York, and one of the first things she said to me was ‘You’re gonna win another Oscar for playing me, right?’,” said Hudson. This moment was only more powerful now that Aretha passed at the age of 76 and will no longer be here to see Hudson’s turn at the microphone.

There’s a competing project however that’s also drawing attention – Genius: Aretha, in which British actress Cynthia Erivo will be at the helm as the inimitable singer. While Hudson’s movie is a feature film, Erivo’s project is a television movie that will air on National Geographic.

During her interview, Hudson was asked about her thoughts on the series, and some fans noticed a bit of shade – while others observed a well-thought answer being given. Hudson paused before offering, “I know that Aretha was adamant that [her life] be a film. If it’s not a film, it’s nothing.”

Then Hudson emphasizes how Aretha chose her directly for her role. “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 LMFAO. Now why she say that. 💀💀💀💀💀💀💀 pic.twitter.com/O7zCzP5DrF

— Regina King’s Emmys Cleaner (@_AllThatJaz) October 15, 2020