Lizzo is getting back into her acting bag with a new role as music pioneer Rosetta Tharpe in a biopic by Amazon MGM Studios. The four-time Grammy winner will put down her flute. She will pick up a guitar to portray the gospel singer who was one of the first to appeal to Rock ‘n’ Roll and R&B audiences. The biopic, Rosetta, is currently in development with Forest Whitaker and Nina Yang Bongiovi for Significant Productions. It is being produced alongside Lizzo and Kevin Beisler. A director has not yet been attached to the project.
A Life of Influence and Trailblazing Talent
The film is expected to capture all of the pivotal moments in Tharpe’s career and life. Her story is one of passion, breaking barriers, navigating societal constraints, exploring her sexuality, and building an iconic career.
Rosetta Tharpe is known as the ‘Godmother of Rock and Roll,’ paving the way for many future legends. She has been praised as someone who effortlessly blended genres and broke barriers simply by being unapologetically herself.
From Musical Prodigy to Rock Icon
Tharpe was born in 1915, and by age six, she had become a musical prodigy, playing the guitar and singing at various church conventions around the country. By age 23, Tharpe had found her stride, creating her own signature guitar style. Her music and style have influenced a multitude of early Rock and Roll musicians. These include Tina Turner, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, and Elvis Presley.
This biopic marks a new era for Lizzo and is one of several moves in her latest comeback following multiple sexual harassment lawsuits in 2023. Lizzo has denied the allegations.
Although Lizzo has appeared on the big screen in movies such as Hustlers and The Mandalorian, this will be her first lead role.
A release date for the film has not yet been released.
Follow MEFeater on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for more celebrity news and updates.
