According to Deadline (September 19), the biopic is in development as a collaborative effort between Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Entertainment, Will Smith’s Westbrook Studios, and Jesse Collins Entertainment.
This marks the first in a series of planned Hip-Hop biopics, all to be independently financed through HarbourView Equity Partners.
While the project is still in the early stages, with no writer or director yet attached, excitement is already building for what promises to be a powerful exploration of Queen Latifah’s journey from music icon to Hollywood royalty.
In a statement, Queen Latifah expressed her excitement about the project, reflecting on the impact Hip-Hop has had on her and her peers:
“We all came into this industry together, and Hip-Hop has shaped each and every one of us. Hip-Hop’s influence has extended far beyond music, leaving a permanent mark on culture and society as a whole.”
“It’s a dream to collaborate with friends and colleagues who not only share this understanding but can tell these stories that formed the backdrop of our lives.”
Will Smith echoed Latifah’s sentiments, highlighting the significance of this collaboration:
“When you bring talented people and teams together, something truly special happens. I’m thrilled to be working with Flavor Unit, Jesse Collins Entertainment, and HarbourView to shine a light on the incredible stories of some of our favorite artists and icons. There’s no better story to kick things off with than Queen Latifah’s—she’s a legend who’s entertained and inspired us for years.”
This project is set to be a pivotal moment in both Queen Latifah’s and Hip-Hop’s legacy, with the promise of more powerful stories to follow. Fans can expect an intimate look into the life of the Grammy Award-winning rapper, actress, and trailblazer, whose influence continues to shape the entertainment industry.