It’s a love story like no other!
Actor John Boyega is set to star as soul singer Otis Redding in a new biopic about the legend’s life, HuffPost reports. “Otis & Zelma” follows the love story of the iconic soul music pioneer and his decade-long relationship with his wife, Zelma Redding. Known as one of the most successful singers and songwriters of his time, Redding passed away in a tragic plane crash at the age of 26. The film follows Redding’s rise to the top of the charts and Zelma’s commitment to preserving his legacy after his untimely passing.
“[The film] celebrates the 10 short years Otis and Zelma had together, and their eternal love story after his passing…Zelma’s resilience and determination to preserve his musical legacy for the last 56 years fuels her, just as much as Otis’ love for Zelma fueled him,” reads a film synopsis as reported by Variety.
❤️ More to come! Next slate is juicy! https://t.co/36l9Ml8StC
— John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) October 2, 2024
After Redding’s passing, his wife Zelma became an entrepreneur, operating a record store, nightclub, and booking business. Actress Danielle Deadwyler (Till) will star alongside Boyega as Zelma in the biopic. The matriarch, president, and founder of the Otis Redding Foundation recently celebrated her 82nd birthday by honoring her late husband at the unveiling of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She never remarried, and the couple’s daughter, Karla Redding-Andrews, spoke about her father’s undying love for her mother.
“I know Dad is saying, ‘I did this for you, Zelma,’” said Redding-Andrews at the ceremony.
No word yet on when “Otis & Zelma” will be released, but we can’t wait!
Cover photo: John Boyega to Star as Soul Singer Otis Redding in New Biopic/Photo credit: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images