Back in October we made a post about the top 5 bio-pics that we would love to see HERE. Now comes fresh word that two of those contenders on the list will indeed be getting the small screen treatment. It has been confirmed that legendary actress and Oscar nominee Angela Bassett will be making her directorial debut working on Whitney Houston (working title), a Lifetime original movie about the late singer. According to E! Online:
Set for 2015 premiere, the movie will tell the story of Houston and her relationship with Bobby Brown from the first time they met to their courtship and rocky marriage. Angela has personal experience with the late singer as many know that the two starred in the mega hit ‘Waiting To Exhale’ and its long awaited sequel was scheduled to go into production as reported before the untimely death of Houston.
“I have such regard for both Whitney’s and Bobby’s amazing talents and accomplishments; and I feel a responsibility in the telling of their story,” Bassett said in a statement. “Their humanity and bond fascinates us all. I’m beyond excited to have this opportunity to go behind the camera and into their world.”
The film will be executive produced by Betty and Coretta‘s Larry Sanitsky and written by Shem Bitterman, also of Betty and Correta fame. Bassett starred in Lifetime’s Betty and Coretta movie opposite Mary J. Blige. No casting has been announced.
Whitney isn’t the only one getting the film treatment, today also comes reports that the film based on the life of Aaliyah is in the works. The film which has been in talks for years, was given new life back in October of last year following the airing of VH1’s ‘Crazy Sexy Cool: The TLC Story’. Just days after the premiere Aaliyah’s uncle and record label head Barry Hankerson posted the below picture claiming that the movie had received a release date on the anniversary of her untimely death and was set to be released courtesy of VH1
The image sent fans into a frenzy but no official word came from VH1 or any other sources confirming.
Today however actress Tristin Mays took to her Instagram and made a post which basically confirmed that the movie is in the works and the search for the lead role is currently taking place. Peep the quotes from the actress below:
“Today, I can’t be upset that I didn’t book the role I worked so hard for. This may have been the most difficult, emotional, inspiring, and lengthy audition process I’ve ever experienced. Getting the chance to portray someone I’ve always loved and admired so much was a blessing every single step of the way. I invested every ounce of my body mind and soul into this process and I can honestly say I’m proud of myself. God definitely has something incredible in store for me. A huge thank you to everyone who believed in me and spoke up for me in the room. And a huge congratulations to everyone in the cast!#TheAaliyahStory.”
Tristin’s post has since been removed from her Instagram account.
