Singer and actress Janelle Monáe has been tapped to portray the illustrious Josephine Baker in the forthcoming series about her decorated career.
The series from A24 titled “De La Resistance” will take viewers on an in-depth journey into Baker’s life as a world-renowned jazz player, civil rights activist, dancer, and actress. The show will also explore her time as a spy for the Allies during the Fresh resistance in World War II. The endearing public figure changed the way Black women are viewed in the entertainment realm, known widely for her sophisticated costumes and unique dancing styles.
In addition to tackling the lead role, Monáe will also produce the show via her Wondaland Pictures imprint. Emmy Award-winning television writer, Jennifer Yale, serves as creator and showrunner. Angela Gibbs, Chuck Lightning, Mikael Moore, Nate Wonder, and Dana Gills will executive produce the show, while Damien Lewis will work as co-executive producer.
On Wednesday, Janelle Monáe shared on Twitter that playing Baker was “a dream finally coming to life.”
The 36-year-old also paid homage to Baker during Monday’s Met Gala with a lavish black and silver Ralph Lauren beaded gown with a fitted hood, reminiscent of the fineries that Baker would have worn in her heyday.
As of now, “De La Resistance” does not have a network home, but several outlets have reported that multiple streaming platforms are fighting to get their hands on the highly anticipated show.
