Fresh off of producing Minions: The Rise of Gru, Taraji P. Henson has earned her next major role. Variety has reported that Henson will star as Shug Avery in Warner Bros. adaptation of The Color Purple. Her character is described as a “jazz and blues singer introduced as Mister’s long-time mistress before becoming Celie’s confidant.”
Henson joins a star-studded cast that already includes Corey Hawkins and H.E.R. Hawkins is slated to play the role of Harpo while H.E.R portrays Squeak.
The latest adaptation of The Color Purple is directed by Blitz Bazawule. Previously, Bazawule directed Black Is King, The Burial of Kojo and Cherish The Day. He will be joined by Steven Spielberg, Quincy Jones and Oprah Winfrey, who are listed as executive producers of the film. Adam Fell, Mara Jacobs, Alice Walker and Rebecca Walker are also expected to receive producer credits.
Warner Bros. film adaptation of The Color Purple is expected to hit theaters on December 20, 2023.
