(Photo: Lifetime Network)
On April 3, 2021, the highly anticipated gospel biopic Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia is set to air on Lifetime.
The biopic depicts the story of one of the most iconic gospel singers in U.S. history, Mahalia Jackson. Jackson is known for songs like “Move on Up a Little Higher” and “Precious Lord Take My Hand.”
Born in New Orleans, Jackson began singing at an early age. Her hard work landed her an opportunity to perform at the late John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball at Carnegie Hall.
Jackson also sang at the March on Washington in 1963, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his historic “I Have a Dream” speech. During the massive protest, she was looking to inspire the nation with her voice.
The film is produced by Rock’n Robin Production and Lincoln Square Productions and Executive produced by Robin Roberts and Linda Berman. During a Good Morning America segment, Roberts shared, “I am so proud to bring you news about a project close to my heart,” referring to the film.
Actress and singer Danielle Brooks, best known for her role in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, plays the lead role as Jackson in the film. In an interview with Good Morning America Brooks shared the significance of Jackson’s impact on Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream Speech.”
“Many people would not know about the famous ‘I Have A Dream’ speech without Mahalia Jackson’’ she shared. “She shouted out ‘Tell em’ about the dream!’”
The cast also includes Broadway stars like Joaquina Kalukango, Jason Dirden, Olivia Washington, and Rob Demery.
Be sure to watch Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia on Lifetime at 8:00 pm on April 3, 2021.
(Photo: Lifetime Network)
