Oscar(R) nominee Queen Latifah ("Chicago") stars as legendary blues singer Bessie Smith in HBO Films' BESSIE, written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dee Rees ("Pariah"). Currently in production in Atlanta and debuting in 2015, the film focuses on Smith's transformation from a struggling young singer into "The Empress of the Blues," one of the most successful recording artists of the 1920s and an enduring icon today. The cast also features Michael K. Williams, Khandi Alexander, Mike Epps, Tika Sumpter, Tory Kittles, Oliver Platt, Bryan Greenberg, Charles S. Dutton and Mo'Nique. BESSIE is executive produced by Queen Latifah, Shakim Compere, Lili Fini Zanuck, Shelby Stone and Randi Michel.
Michael K. Williams (HBO's "Boardwalk Empire"; "12 Years a Slave") stars as Bessie's husband, Jack. Khandi Alexander ("Scandal," HBO's "Treme") plays Bessie's big sister, Viola. Mike Epps ("The Hangover," "Soul Men") plays Richard, a bootlegger and romantic interest. Tika Sumpter ("Ride Along," "Sparkle") plays Lucille, a performer and romantic interest. Oliver Platt ("X-Men: First Class," "Fargo," "Chef") plays famed photographer and writer Carl Van Vechten. Bryan Greenberg ("Friends with Benefits," HBO's "How to Make It in America") portrays renowned record producer and music critic John Hammond. Tory Kittles (HBO's "True Detective"; "Olympus Has Fallen") plays Bessie's older brother, Clarence. Charles S. Dutton ("Longmire," "Alien 3") portrays Ma Rainey's husband, William "Pa" Rainey. Mo'Nique ("Precious," "The Parkers") portrays blues legend Ma Rainey. Award-winning actress, musician, talk-show host, bestselling author and business executive Queen Latifah boasts an impressive list of honors, including a Golden Globe, Emmy(R) Award, Image Awards, Grammys and multiple SAG Awards. In 1993, with Shakim Compere, she formed the successful production company Flavor Unit Entertainment, which manages artists and produces film and television projects.Videos