Mahalia is smiling down!
According to Shadow and Act, award winning actress Danielle Brooks is set to star in Lifetime’s new biopic about the iconic gospel singer Mahalia Jackson.
Jackson is one of the most influential gospel singers in the world. The New Orleans native began singing at an early age, receiving international recognition for her voice and her commitment to the civil rights movement. She was one of the first to perform in front of integrated audiences at Carnegie Hall and during President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball. Jackson worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., helping to utilize her platform whenever needed, even performing at several rallies including the 1963 March on Washington.
Brooks skyrocketed to fame after her role as “Taystee” on Netflix’s “Orange Is The New Black.” The Grammy award winner will portray Jackson in the upcoming story about her life, produced by longtime television host Robin Roberts’ Rock ‘n Robin Production company. Kenny Leon (American Son) will work alongside Roberts as director.
Tanya Lopez, EVP of Movies, Limited Series & Original Movie Acquisitions at Lifetime spoke about the new project, saying, “Having had the privilege of working with Kenny on Steel Magnolias and Robin Roberts on Stolen by my Mother, I am ecstatic to have them join forces to work together on this special project. Danielle Brooks as Mahalia is icing on the cake. This team is committed in celebrating the legacy of Mahalia and reintroducing her to a world that needs her spirit more than ever.”
The “The Mahalia Jackson Story” is streaming now.
Congratulations to the entire cast and crew behind this!
Photo Courtesy of BusinessWire/BBC