Oscar nominated actress Ruth Negga (Loving) is set to star in ABC Signature’s new limited series Josephine about iconic performer and civil rights activist Josephine Baker, according to Deadline. In addition to playing the leading role Negga will also serve as an executive producer  for the miniseries biopic of the American born French entertainer.

According to Deadline the series Josephine is being described as a raw and unflinching look at the force of the biggest, brightest female artist of her time, Josephine Baker.  Baker was an international superstar, a decorated WWII spy, civil rights activist and flawed mother. According to Deadline Josephine will delve deep into the raw talent, sexual fluidity, struggles, and bold life that was her story.

Considered one of the most influential female entertainers of the last century Baker first starred in a major motion picture when she was just 15 years old. She became the first black woman to star in a motion picture with 1927’s Siren Of The Tropics. She then moved to France at the age of 19 to become one of Europe’s highest paid performers according to Deadline.

Written by Dee Harris-Lawrence (All Rise) the limited series Josephine, will also be executive produced by Harris-Lawrence, and LeBron James’ The Springhill Company. Emmy nominated Millicent Shelton (J.LO’s Shades Of Blue) is set to direct as well as executive produce, Deadline reports.

Negga is best known for her critically acclaimed role of Mildred Loving in Jeff Nichols’ (Midnight Special) 2016 romantic drama biopic Loving. Negga’s portrayal earned her her first Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Best Actress. Rebecca Hall (Iron Man 3) film Passing is Negga’s next upcoming project. Passing will be Hall’s directorial debut and Negga will star in the project along with Tessa Thompson (Thor: Ragnarok). 

 

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