Golden Globe award-winning actress Regina King is set to star in and produce “Shirley,” an upcoming biopic about Shirley Chisholm, America’s first Black congresswoman.
“Shirley Chisholm’s fearless determination has been an inspiration to so many of us, and with this film we hope to inspire many generations to come,” King said in a statement via Variety. “To collaborate once again with my friend and mentor, John Ridley, and the team at Participant, makes this decade-long journey even sweeter.”
Ridley added: “Regina’s passion for bringing a complete and very human portrait of Shirley to life has been evident since literally the day we first met. I’m very thankful to both Regina and Reina trusting me to partner in telling the story of this truly remarkable individual.”
“Shirley” centers on the Chisholm’s history-making 1972 presidential campaign. Uzo Aduba recently nabbed an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series as Chisholm in “Mrs. America.”
The biopic is based on the life story rights through an exclusive agreement with the Chisholm Estate, so the end product should result in a historically accurate offering.
King earned an Oscar two years ago for her supporting role in “If Beale Street Could Talk.” More recently, she directed and executive produced “One Night in Miami”.”
“Shirley Chisholm’s life as a politician and her groundbreaking career in Washington is a critical part of American history that is far too often overlooked,” Participant CEO David Linde added. “We are thrilled to partner with John, Regina, Reina and a tremendously talented creative team to share the story of this remarkable woman with audiences everywhere.”
Production for the movie should begin later this year.
