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Lizzo Cast as Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Upcoming Film

Pitchfork | April 14, 2025

Lizzo Set to Channel Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Upcoming Biopic ‘Rosetta’

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In a move that has both the film and music worlds buzzing, Lizzo has been officially cast to play the iconic Sister Rosetta Tharpe in the upcoming biopic titled Rosetta. The announcement, reported by Deadline, marks a significant step for Lizzo as she dives into a major dramatic role, and it shines a much-deserved spotlight on Tharpe, who is often hailed as the godmother of rock’n’roll.

Tharpe’s influence on the music world is undeniable; inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, her groundbreaking guitar skills and pioneering sound paved the way for countless artists who followed. Notably, her legacy was honored at the induction ceremony through a stirring performance by Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes. Sister Rosetta not only holds a cherished place in the evolution of rock music but also in the fabric of American culture, making her story an essential one to tell.

The film, being developed under the Amazon MGM Studios banner, will see Lizzo step into the shoes of the legendary musician in what promises to be a powerful exploration of her life and the challenges she faced. Alongside Lizzo, the film boasts an impressive production team that includes Kevin Beisler, Nina Yang Bongiovi, and the acclaimed actor Forest Whitaker, while Natalie Chaidez and Kwynn Perry are tasked with crafting the screenplay. As of now, a director has yet to be confirmed, but speculation is surging as fans eagerly await the film’s development.

For Lizzo, this role marks her first significant foray into dramatic film since her appearance in the 2019 hit Hustlers. Since then, she has continued to evolve as an artist, releasing two new singles—“Love in Real Life” and “Still Bad”—and teasing a forthcoming album that will follow her much-discussed legal battles with former employees. With her vivacious spirit and undeniable talent, Lizzo is poised to bring a contemporary pulse to Tharpe’s extraordinary story.

As if that weren’t enough to keep her in the public eye, Lizzo is also set to make a guest appearance on the iconic Saturday Night Live next month, promising to deliver yet another dose of her signature charisma.

Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and trailblazing talent, and if early indications are anything to go by, Rosetta is shaping up to be a poignant homage that captures the spirit of both Tharpe and the electrifying Lizzo. With music history being reimagined on the big screen, audiences should prepare for a compelling journey into the roots of rock’n’roll.

Keep your eyes peeled for more updates on this exciting project as it moves forward; Lizzo’s transformative performances are bound to breathe new life into the legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Stay tuned.


Written by Pitchfork




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