British singer and actress FKA twigs is set to play legendary entertainer Josephine Baker in a new biopic directed by French filmmaker Maïmouna Doucouré. The project marks Twigs' first leading role in a major Hollywood film.
According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, filming is expected to begin this fall. The movie has received support from Baker's estate as well as two of her adopted children, Jean-Claude Bouillon Baker and Brian Bouillon Baker.
FKA Twigs Is Excited For The Project
Twigs shared her excitement about taking on the role, saying she is eager to bring Baker's journey, struggles, talent, love, and courage to audiences on the big screen. She also described Baker as a visionary and groundbreaking woman whose story still feels powerful and relevant today.
Image Courtesy: FKA twigs/ Instagram
The upcoming film will be Twigs' first biographical role. The Grammy-winning artist has previously appeared in projects including 'Honey Boy,' 'The Crow,' and 'Mother Mary.'
Who is Josephine Baker?
Known as one of the biggest stars of the Jazz Age, Baker became famous after moving from St. Louis to France. Born Freda Josephine McDonald, she made history as the first Black woman to lead a major motion picture with the 1927 French silent film 'Siren of the Tropics.' Baker was 68 years old when she died in 1975. Earlier this year, her 1948 memoir 'Fearless and Free' was translated from French into English for the first time.
Image Courtesy: FKA twigs/ Instagram
Director Doucouré, who gained international attention with her award-winning film 'Cuties,' said working on the project has shown her how modern, fearless, and layered Josephine Baker truly was. She hopes to explore not only Baker's legendary career but also her personal struggles, courage, and fight for dignity.
The biopic's title and release date have not yet been announced.
