‘The Color Purple’ Broadway Actress Wants Royalties For Lyrics Used In New Film

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Everyone has been raving about the performances in the new musical The Color Purple musical based on the classic novel/film written by Alice Walker. The film was released on Christmas Day and opened at No.1 at the box office.

Now the actress. LaChanze who played Miss Celie on Broadway is demanding royalties for her contributions to the original songs used in the production. LaChanze initially won a Tony for playing Celie on Broadway, with Barrino joining a wealth of other actresses who took on the part on stage following LaChanze’s departure from the production, also including Cynthia Erivo and Adrianna Hicks. Barrino eventually reprised the role in director Blitz Bazawule’s big-screen adaptation of the musical, which also welcomed supporting actress Danielle Brooks back to The Color Purple family in the role of Sofia, which she first portrayed in the 2015 Broadway revival.

LaChanze wrote on Twitter:

I am getting a lot of DM’s and posts about why I’ve been left out of the press as the original Celie in the

@TheColorPurple (musical). I am thrilled for the movie’s success! Happy for all involved. However, I do want my royalty fee for the lyrics I added to “I’M HERE”.

Watch LaChanze’s performance below:

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Usher And H.E.R. Share New Music Video For “Risk It All”

Earlier this month, two R&B superstars Usher and H.E.R. teamed up for a sensual new song. The track is called “Risk It All” and it comes from the soundtrack to the recently released reimagined version of The Color Purple. The soundtrack also includes tracks from stars like Alicia Keys, Jorja Smith, Mary J Blige, Halle Bailey, Coco Jones, Megan Thee Stallion, Black Thought, Shenseea, and many more. “Risk It All” performed well on streaming and has racked up more than 600k streams in the three weeks since it dropped.

Now, the song is getting its own sleek Dave Meyers directed music video. The visual itself is already racking up tens of thousands of views in just its first few hours and it’s easy to see why. The intimate visuals feature the mostly-nude artists showing off their sensual choreography D’Angelo-style. It’s a dark and undeniably erotic video that matches the vibe of the song perfectly. Check out the full music video for “Risk It All” below.

Read More: Summer Walker Was Downright Giddy At Usher’s Las Vegas Show

Usher And H.E.R.’s Newest Video

Usher has had a pretty substantial 2023. His Las Vegas residency was well received by everyone in attendance. That included the numerous celebs who made headline news for showing up. It was also the inciting point for one of the biggest public scandals of the year. The drama between Keke Palmer and Darius Jackson began at one of Usher’s shows. The R&B legend himself was pretty comedic in his observation of how the events unfolded.

Usher also got tapped to perform at next year’s Super Bowl halftime show. He will take to the stage in Las Vegas in February of next year for the final game of the NFL season. He is also planning on releasing his brand new album on the same day. The album’s lead single “Good Good” features 21 Savage and Summer Walker. The song has performed very well since it dropped earlier this year racking up 27 million streams and still ranking on this weeks Hot 100. What do you think of the sensual new music video from Usher and H.E.R.? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: What Is Usher’s Best-Selling Album?

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“The Color Purple” Grabs Massive Opening Day

The Color Purple recorded the second-best Christmas Day opening of all time, bringing in $18M this past Monday. The only Christmas Day opening to do better than The Color Purple was 2009’s Sherlock Holmes, which brought in $24.6M. Furthermore, the film opened to a 88% critic’s rating on Rotten Tomatoes. “Woke up to all the positive reactions to #TheColorPurple. What a blessing!!! Grateful to all who helped me make this film. Let’s continue to pack the theaters y’all,” director Blitz Bazawule wrote on X.

The film is the most recent reimagining of the seminal novel by Alice Walker. After Walker wrote the book in 1982, it was quickly turned into a film in 1985. The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and served as Winfrey’s breakout role. In 2005, an adaptation opened on Broadway and was revived in 2015. This year’s film is more of an adaptation of the musical than the original novel.

Read More: The Color Purple Soundtrack: Alicia Keys’ “Lifeline” Music Video Is Full Of Soul

Oprah Reveals Original Studio Vision For The Color Purple

Meanwhile, Oprah Winfrey has said that when she first approached studios with a pitch to remake The Color Purple, the studio heads wanted to cast someone like Beyonce or Rihanna in the film. “To be completely honest about it, if you were doing this film for $30 or $40 million, the interest in the cast would be very different. Once the film moved to $90 to $100 million, then everybody wants us to bring Beyoncé. Can you get Beyoncé or can you get Rihanna?’ So we’re sitting in a room saying, ‘Listen, we love Beyoncé. We love Rihanna, but there are other actors who can do this job.’ I do remember conversations about, ‘Y’all, Beyoncé is going to be busy this year.’ It wasn’t even a negotiation, because you’re not getting Beyoncé,” Winfrey told The Hollywood Reporter.

Instead, Winfrey was able to assemble an all-star ensemble cast. The film stars Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, H.E.R., and Halle Bailey just to name a few. The film is being helmed by Blitz the Ambassador, the Ghanian musician and director. He has previously released 2018’s Death of Kojo and the Lion King visual companion Black is King. The screenplay comes from playwright Marcus Gardley.

Read More: Taraji P. Henson Admits She Initially Ignored Oprah Winfrey’s Call For The Color Purple

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‘The Color Purple’ Remake Triumphs at the Christmas Day Box Office

Taraji P. Henson, H.E.R. Fantasia, Halle Bailey & More to Star in 'Bold New Tape' of 'The Color Purple'

In a heartwarming twist, the remake of “The Color Purple” emerged as the holiday season’s cinematic darling, claiming the top spot at the box office on Christmas Day. Starring the dynamic trio of Danielle Brooks, Fantasia Barrino, and Taraji P. Henson, the movie seamlessly blended the cherished storyline with the enchanting elements of song and dance, leaving audiences captivated and emotionally moved.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the musical adaptation, produced by the formidable duo Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, raked in an impressive $18.1 million from 3,142 theaters on Monday. This remarkable performance marks the second-best showing ever for a movie opening on Christmas Day and the best since 2009.

The stellar cast, featuring Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, and Colman Domingo, brought Blitz Bazawule’s visionary retelling of Alice Walker’s beloved novel to life. The narrative, originally adapted from the Tony-winning Broadway show, retained its integrity while introducing the powerful dimensions of music and choreography, creating a truly brilliant cinematic experience.

The Hollywood Reporter notes that the record for the biggest Christmas Day opening still belongs to 2009’s “Sherlock Holmes,” which earned $24.6 million (not adjusted for inflation). However, “The Color Purple” remake’s triumphant performance underscores its undeniable impact on audiences during the festive season.

The blend of nostalgia, exceptional performances, and the infusion of musical elements contributed to the film’s success. The enchanting retelling of this timeless story serves as a testament to the enduring power of Alice Walker’s narrative and the creative prowess of the team behind this modern cinematic masterpiece.

As viewers flocked to theaters on Christmas Day, “The Color Purple” remake not only captivated the hearts of those familiar with the classic but also introduced a new generation to the beauty and resilience embedded in the narrative. The movie’s success serves as a heartening conclusion to the year, bringing much-needed cheer to the holiday box office.

For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of this musical adaptation, “The Color Purple” promises an emotional and visually stunning journey, ensuring that Alice Walker’s timeless tale continues to resonate and inspire audiences across generations.

The post ‘The Color Purple’ Remake Triumphs at the Christmas Day Box Office first appeared on The Source.

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Was Ciara In The New ‘The Color Purple’ Movie?

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Getty Image

The new movie adaption of The Color Purple Broadway musical hit theaters yesterday, and now that it’s out, fans on social media have been wondering whether star singer Ciara has a role in the film. The film stars singers like Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, HER (credited under her real name, Gabriela Wilson), and Jon Batiste, and with Ciara showing up at the premiere in Los Angeles earlier this month (just before her fourth child was born), it’s only natural to wonder whether she’s also in the movie.

Of course, the answer could be considered a spoiler, so if you haven’t seen it and want to go in fresh, feel free to bookmark and come back later. For those who have seen the film or just want to know ahead of time, read on.

Ciara does appear in the film, but only for a few minutes at the end, when she plays the role of Nettie Johnson, recently returned from Africa to reunite with her sister Celie (played by Fantasia). Ciara’s character is the older version of Halle Bailey’s; when we last see Bailey in the role, she’s run off the farm owned by her sister’s new husband, promising to write her every week.

Unfortunately, for a multitude of reasons, she’s kept from seeing Celie until both are much older. Ciara participates in the finale number, “The Color Purple,” along with the rest of the ensemble.

The Color Purple is now playing in theaters nationwide.

“The Color Purple” Soundtrack: Alicia Keys’ “Lifeline” Music Video Is Full Of Soul

Alicia Keys’ vocal talent is one of a kind, which is exactly why her hits like “Girl On Fire” and “No One” have appeared in a handful of shows and movies throughout her career. More recently, the New Yorker found herself involved with Oprah Winfrey’s remake of The Color Purple, contributing a beautiful song called “Lifeline” to the historic film’s soundtrack. On Thursday (December 21), Keys unleashed the song’s accompanying music video, for which she reconnected with director Diane Martel, HipHopDX reports.

In the past, the duo collaborated on visuals for songs like “If I Ain’t Got You” and “Like You’ll Never See Me Again.” Their working relationship seems to only grow stronger with each joint effort, and the visual story they tell for “Lifeline” marks some of their best creative planning yet. “I can be your lifeline / Stay with you ‘til the sunrise / When you’re low / It don’t mean you’re alone,” the mother of two’s voice beautifully rings out.

Read More: Alicia Keys Reveals Jay-Z Almost Replaced Her On “Empire State Of Mind”

Alicia Keys Shares Her Stunning Contribution to The Color Purple Film

“I’ll be by your side / Oh, I can be the reason / That you don’t feel your demons / When you’re low / It don’t mean you’re alone / I’ll be by your side,” Keys soothes listeners. Now that “Lifeline” is here, we’re even more eager to see The Color Purple when it hits theatres on Christmas Day. Ciara, H.E.R. and Halle Bailey all star in the project, though Oprah recently shared that the studio was hoping to see Beyonce or Rihanna cast in the film.

We’re just days away from The Color Purple officially arriving in theatres, and movie buffs are already eager to see how the classic story’s retelling will go over with audiences. Earlier this fall, Bailey described the atmosphere of being on set as comparable to a “cookout,” making her and her co-stars feel incredibly comfortable and at home together. Read everything the Atlanta native had to say at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

Read More: Halle Bailey Reflects On Filming “The Color Purple”: “Set Was Like Going To A Cookout”

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Oprah Winfrey Reveals Who The Studio Execs Wanted To Cast In “The Color Purple” As New Trailer Drops

Oprah Winfrey has said that when she first approached studios with a pitch to remake The Color Purple, the studio heads wanted to cast someone like Beyonce or Rihanna in the film. “To be completely honest about it, if you were doing this film for $30 or $40 million, the interest in the cast would be very different. Once the film moved to $90 to $100 million, then everybody wants us to bring Beyoncé. Can you get Beyoncé or can you get Rihanna?’ So we’re sitting in a room saying, ‘Listen, we love Beyoncé. We love Rihanna, but there are other actors who can do this job.’ I do remember conversations about, ‘Y’all, Beyoncé is going to be busy this year.’ It wasn’t even a negotiation, because you’re not getting Beyoncé,” Winfrey told The Hollywood Reporter.

Instead, Winfrey was able to assemble an all-star ensemble cast. The film stars Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, H.E.R., and Halle Bailey just to name a few. The film is being helmed by Blitz the Ambassador, the Ghanian musician and director. He has previously released 2018’s Death of Kojo and the Lion King visual companion Black is King. The screenplay comes from playwright Marcus Gardley.

Read More: Taraji P. Henson Admits She Initially Ignored Oprah Winfrey’s Call For The Color Purple

The Color Purple Gets A New Trailer

Meanwhile, this week saw a new trailer drop for The Color Purple. Due out on Christmas Day, the film is the most recent reimagining of the seminal novel by Alice Walker. After Walker wrote the book in 1982, it was quickly turned into a film in 1985. The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and served as Winfrey’s breakout role. In 2005, an adaptation opened on Broadway and was revived in 2015. This year’s film is more of an adaptation of the musical than the original novel.

The story follows Cellie (Fantasia) and her journey as a Black woman through the early 20th Century. The story covers a lot of heavy topics, such as racism and incest. The story’s heart is the relationship between Cellie and her sister Nettie (Ciara) and has long endured as one of the great American stories of the late 20th Century. Will you be watching The Color Purple when it comes out? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: Halle Bailey Joins Oprah To Promote “The Color Purple,” Fans Think She’s Hiding Her Stomach

Oprah’s Comments On Casting Suggestions

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Margaret Avery Net Worth 2023: What Is The “Color Purple” Icon Worth?

Margaret Avery, a celebrated actress, has made a notable impact in Hollywood with her compelling performances in film and television. Her career, spanning several decades, is distinguished by her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity. As of 2023, Avery’s successful tenure in the industry has contributed to a net worth of $3 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth, reflecting her enduring influence and talent in the entertainment world.

Career Highlights: Notable Roles & Achievements

Margaret Avery
Whoopi Goldberg and Margaret Avery on the set of “The Color Purple”. (Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images)

Avery’s journey in acting began with theater, where she honed her skills before transitioning to film and television. She gained critical acclaim for her role in The Color Purple, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This performance, marked by its emotional depth and power, solidified her status as a talented actress. Avery continued to showcase her versatility with roles in various genres, earning respect and admiration within the industry.

Personal Life & Pursuits

Margaret Avery
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – FEBRUARY 22: Margaret Avery, Viola Davis and Cynthia Erivo. Attend the 8th Annual Oscar’s Sistahs Soiree. Presented by Alfre Woodard and Farfetch at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel. On February 22, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Todd Williamson/WireImage)

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Margaret Avery’s personal life includes a commitment to mentorship and advocacy. Further, her efforts to support emerging talents in the industry and her involvement in community initiatives highlight her dedication to giving back. Avery’s journey balances her career with these personal commitments. It adds a layer of richness to her public persona.

Impact & Legacy: Evaluating Avery’s Influence

Margaret Avery
LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 20: (L-R) Actors Latarsha Rose, B.J. Britt, Margaret Avery, Nick Cannon, Ian Harding and NBC4 LA anchor Kathy Vara attend the Walk to End Lupus Now event at Exposition Park on September 20, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Angela Weiss/Getty Images for Lupus Foundation of America)

Considering Margaret Avery’s $3 million net worth in 2023, her significance in the entertainment industry is clear. Her contributions, particularly her acclaimed role in The Color Purple, have left a lasting impression on audiences and peers alike. Avery’s career is a testament to her skill as an actress and her ability to leave a lasting mark in the competitive world of Hollywood.

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Beyoncé And Rihanna Were Considered For ‘The Color Purple,’ According To Oprah, Who Quickly Shut The Notion Down

beyonce rihanna 2015
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The Color Purple is one of the most anticipated movies of the year. A cast featuring Danielle Brooks, H.E.R., Halle Bailey, and Fantasia is already promising on its own, but according to Oprah Winfrey, who produced the movie musical and starred in the original 1985 movie, the cast almost looked different.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Oprah revealed that Rihanna and Beyoncé were once considered for the cast, but she felt it more appropriate to give other actors an opportunity to shine.

“To be completely honest about it, if you were doing this film for $30 or $40 million, the interest in the cast would be very different,” Winfrey said. “Once the film moved to $90 to $100 million, then everybody wants us to bring Beyoncé. ‘Can you get Beyoncé or can you get Rihanna?’ So we’re sitting in a room saying, ‘Listen, we love Beyoncé. We love Rihanna, but there are other actors who can do this job.’”

Both Bey and Rihanna have had their hands full this year — Beyoncé with her Renaissance World Tour and film, and Rihanna with her fashion and make-up brands, and the birth of her newborn son. According to Oprah, their stacked schedules were taken into consideration.

“I do remember conversations about, ‘Y’all, Beyoncé is going to be busy this year.’ It wasn’t even a negotiation, because you’re not getting Beyoncé,” said Oprah

Oprah Reveals Producers for ‘The Color Purple’ Remake Wanted Beyoncé or Rihanna in the Film

Oprah Exhibit to Open at National African American Museum

The Color Purple, dubbed a “bold new take,” is getting ready to make its Christmas Day career. In a new cover story in The Hollywood Reporter, Oprah revealed producers pushed for Beyoncé or Rihanna to be part of the cast.

“If you were doing this film for $30 or $40 million, the interest in the cast would be very different,” Oprah said. “Once the film moved to $90 to $100 million, then everybody wants us to bring Beyoncé. ‘Can you get Beyoncé or can you get Rihanna?’ So we’re sitting in a room saying, ‘Listen, we love Beyoncé. We love Rihanna, but there are other actors who can do this job.’”

Oprah also revealed it would be nearly impossible for Beyoncé to be a part, citing “she is going to be busy this year.”

Warner Bros. Pictures announced a “bold new take on the beloved classic” The Color Purple. The forthcoming film is directed by Blitz Bazawule and produced by Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Scott Sanders, and Quincy Jones.

The film will star Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, and Fantasia Barrino in her major motion picture debut.

The screenplay is by Marcus Gardley, based on the novel by Alice Walker, and based on the musical stage play by Marsha Norma. The executive producers Alice Walker, Rebecca Walker, Kristie Macosko Krieger, Carla Gardini, Mara Jacobs, Adam Fell, Courtenay Valenti, Sheila Walcott and Michael Beugg.

Warner Bros. Pictures will distribute the film worldwide and open in North America on Christmas Day.

You can see the trailer below.

The post Oprah Reveals Producers for ‘The Color Purple’ Remake Wanted Beyoncé or Rihanna in the Film first appeared on The Source.

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