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Writer's pictureLoVetta Jenkins

First Images of Jennifer Hudson and Marlon Wayans in the Aretha Franklin Biopic!


Ok so check it, last year when Aretha Franklin passed away we all got the word that singer Jennifer Hudson would be playing the Queen of Soul in her upcoming biopic. Franklin fans have been waiting patiently for the first images of Hudson as Franklin and, THEY'RE FINALLY HERE!

Overnight several photos taken on the set of "Respect" surfaced and we must say. . . we've got a few questions.

The photos seem to depict Hudson as a younger Franklin on an outing with her first husband, Ted White, played by actor Marlon Wayans.

The Oscar-winning actress appears to be acting shy while being wooed by White.

In real life Aretha was just 19 when she tied the knot with Ted, and together they had a son, Ted White Jr. Ted was reportedly abusive to Aretha, and the marriage ended in divorce in 1969.

We can assume that Wayans' role will be relatively short IF the film is set to cover Franklin's entire life and career. If it focuses on her rise to fame, which we suspect it will for time constraints, his role may be a little more than just a casual cameo.

Check out these photos of what looks to be the couple's first kiss!

We need to ask Marlon what he was doing with his lips on that last one! It's clear that Hudson has nailed the "innocent church girl" young Aretha vibe, down to the time-stamped hairdo!

This movie has racked up quite a great cast to play the main characters. Broadway actress and singer is set to play Aretha Franklin's mother,Barbara Franklin, Forest Whitaker will play Aretha's father, Reverend C.L. Franklin and Tituss Burgess will play gospel great Reverend Dr. James Cleveland.

Respect is set for release August 14, 2020 and we'll definitely be in theaters when it drops!

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