Famed Director Lee Daniels is directing and producing a biopic about the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday.
According to Deadline, “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” movie is set for production next month in Montreal. The film tells the story of Holiday during a time when she is targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics in an operation led by her former lover and federal agent, Jimmy Fletcher. The biopic explores Holiday’s triumphs and tragedies including her struggles with fame, love and addiction.
The script is written by trailblazing playwright, Suzan-Lori Parks, the first Black woman to receive a Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Rising singer and songwriter Andra Day is set to play Holiday in the film. Joining her are Award Winning Actor Trevante Rhodes (Moonlight) and Broadway singer and actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph (Dolemite Is My Name).
In a statement released to the press, Daniels said “It is an extraordinary responsibility to tell the story of the iconic Billie Holiday. Her story is very personal to me and I hope to do justice when bringing to light this profound and complicated soul — a great artist and an unsung civil rights warrior.”
No word yet on when the film will be released but we are staying tuned!