logo
instagram.com/iamjhud
instagram.com/iamjhud

Oprah and Jennifer Hudson Stun in Red Matching Dresses in Rose Garden ahead of Aretha Franklin Biopic 'Respect' Release

Olawale Ogunjimi
By Olawale Ogunjimi
Jul 21, 2021
07:50 P.M.

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey and award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson looked dazzling as they twinned in red dresses while strolling in a rose garden, discussing Aretha Franklin's soon-to-be-released biopic titled "Respect."

Advertisement

Aretha Franklin may be gone, but her works and other memories will forever remain in the hearts of many. She was first a preacher's daughter, a leading voice of the church, who rose to fame owing to her unique and melodic tunes.

The iconic singer not only thrilled millions of fans across the world with her voice but was an activist who clamored for civil justice, especially for her fellow African Americans.

Aretha Franklin performs at The Fox Theatre on March 5, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia | Photo: Getty Images

Aretha Franklin performs at The Fox Theatre on March 5, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia | Photo: Getty Images

Popularly called "The queen of soul," Franklin's impact in the entertainment industry and the black community is impressive, and it remains on the lips of music lovers, including celebrities and fans.

Advertisement

Her biopic "Respect," a title similar to one of the singer's hit songs of the 90s, is set to drop in August. The talented singer and actress Jenifer Hudson, who played an onscreen Aretha Franklin, had a heart-to-heart talk with media mogul Oprah Winfrey.

Winfrey, a renowned media personality and the owner of the Oprah Winfrey Network "OWN," stunned fans during the interview because she donned a matching colored outfit with her guest.

Advertisement

She rocked a flowing and loose red dress, along with a brunette wig, as she walked close to Hudson in a fitted red midi dress and fringed curly hair.

The image was shared by Hudson and later the interviewer, with both women urging fans to watch the interview on OWN. Winfrey's caption read:

"Tonight I sit down with Jennifer in my rose garden to discuss how she was able to transcend herself and DO. THAT. THING."

Advertisement

The network later shared sneak peeks of their discussion via its Instagram page. Both women appeared comfortable in each other's company, and the actress explained that she had to understand her era and Franklin's to perfectly play the role.

That was not all; Hudson admitted that she settled in the role seamlessly due to her affiliation to the church. Like the deceased, she sang in the church as a young girl and still fixes the church as the base and core while singing.

Advertisement

HOW SHE GOT THE ROLE

While speaking about the biopic, the media mogul praised Hudson regarding her performance and ability to play the music legend perfectly in "Aretha Franklin."

The actress admitted that it was a tasking job, but she did things following the instructions from her mind and how Franklin would want it done.

Advertisement

Winfrey asked if she auditioned for the role, and the celebrity admitted that during one of her stage performances on the BET Awards, with the legendary singer in the front row, she intended to impress. She added:

"When you give me the opportunity, I will make it work."

The "Respect" actress sang her heart out, Franklin noticed the unique voice, gave the nod to the performance, and the deal to play the role was sealed!

Hudson stated that the icon had asked her about taking the lead role in her biopic and challenged the younger singer to winning an Oscar for the character fifteen years ago.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Both women established a connection nearly after meeting for the first time, although Franklin has always been the actress's role model and the blueprint of her career.

Through their friendliness, Hudson was determined to give her best. While learning the ropes of being an onscreen Aretha Franklin, she was consistent and determined in learning the piano, taking choreography classes, and mastering her songs on camera and remaking them.

Ultimately, through the help of skilled stars like Hudson, award-winning theater director Liesl Tommy, and Tracy Scott Wilson, as well as a survey organized by Fandango and United Artists Releasing on early access screening, fans are sure to witness one of the best theatre experiences in the movie world.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts
Glen Hansard | Source: Getty Images

Glen Hansard, Oscar-Winning Irish Musician, Dead at 56 Following Incident That Has Left Colleagues Heartbroken

July 30, 2026

Rihanna | Source: Getty Images

Rihanna Spotted Solo Shopping in Beverly Hills While A$AP Rocky Tours — Photos

June 27, 2026

Madonna | Source: Getty Images

Madonna, 67, Steps Out in a Mini Dress After Co-Hosting Paris Afterparty with Charli XCX — Photos

June 27, 2026

Dolly Parton | Source: Getty Images

Dolly Parton Loses a Close Family Member as Sister Stella Shares a Heartfelt Statement

July 27, 2026

Martha Reeves | Source: Getty Images

Martha Reeves, 85, Takes the Field at Women's Baseball League Opener to Sing the National Anthem — Video

August 04, 2026

Oprah Winfrey | Source: Getty Images

Oprah Winfrey's Luxurious Schiaparelli Look at Cannes Lions Has People Divided — Photos

June 23, 2026

Celine Dion | Source: Getty Images

Celine Dion Shares Touching Memory About Peabo Bryson's Kindness During 'Beauty and the Beast' Recording

June 03, 2026

Peabo Bryson | Source: Getty Images

Peabo Bryson's Family Story Reveals Never-Before-Seen Details — Photos

June 03, 2026

Nivea | Source: Getty Images

Nivea Reveals She Went Through Two Procedures Before Doctors Could Confirm What's Wrong with Her — and She's Sharing Her First Update

July 24, 2026

Peabo Bryson | Source: Getty Images

Grammy Winner Peabo Bryson Passes Away — Family Shares Final Moments

June 02, 2026

Janet Jackson | Source: Getty Images

Janet Jackson, 60, Arrives at the 2026 BET Awards in a '90s-Inspired Outfit That Left Fans with Questions — Photos

June 29, 2026