Known for his classic, comedic films and stand-up humor, Marlon Wayans embodies a new persona and shows us he can do it all in the upcoming film, RESPECT.
The late Aretha Franklin has touched millions of people with her powerhouse voice, sassy attitude, and iconic songs, however RESPECT details parts of the icon’s life that many will be shocked to learn. The film follows the rise of Franklin’s career from a child singing in her father’s [Forest Whitaker] church choir to international stardom. On her journey to success audiences will learn what happened behind the scenes of Franklin’s seemingly glamorous life. The star-studded cast including Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Tituss Burgess, Mary J. Blige, and many more will give viewers a whole new reason to respect the Queen of Soul.
It is often said to be kind to everyone since you never know what battles they are facing, even if they are constantly in the public eye. RESPECT revealed so much pain that the Grammy winning artist endured throughout her entire life and even Wayans who plays Ted White, Franklin’s ex husband was blown away by all he did not know. “There was just so much to learn and I think she’s such a strong, powerful figure; especially for women or anybody. To have that many obstacles in your life and for you to triumph, that’s life,” Wayans shared. While the film dove into the more personal and intimate aspects of Franklin’s life it also made sure to highlight the joys, successes, hit songs that we can all sing along to and all the love that surrounded the legendary artist including her family of talented singers.
Many are unaware that Franklin’s background singers were originally her sisters, Erma and Carolyn Franklin. Franklin came from a family of talented singers which is similar to RESPECT actor, Marlon Wayans. Wayans also comes from a family of talent, except their talent shines through acting and comedy. Wayans joked that if he had to sing one Aretha Franklin song to save his life it would be A Natural Woman because he always mixes up the letters of Respect. As we can imagine, a group of sisters all with the same dream of becoming a musical superstar, led to some tension in the Franklin household but luckily the same cannot be said of the Wayans brothers. “We always played nice together. There’s always gonna be those moments of, hey man, that’s my joke — we don’t really compete like that though,” Wayans said.
Whether you were a die-hard fan of the late Aretha Franklin, a new fan, even if you know little about the Queen of Soul, RESPECT is a timeless tale of resilience, determination, and pure talent. The film will premiere only in theaters on Aug. 13.
