Cynthia Erivo Cast as Aretha Franklin in National Geographic’s ‘Genius’ Series


Cynthia Erivo is currently on a high playing Harriet Tubman, a pivotal African-American woman, and she will soon play another. Erivo is set to play the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, in upcoming third season of National Geographic’s Genius Series.

The Emmy-winning anthology series is a scripted drama, that gives you a portrayal of one main person during a season. The first season was focused on Albert Einstein. His life, his rise, and his story. Last season was on Pablo Picasso.

Erivo released a statement to CNN, saying Franklin ” has been a source of inspiration for me since I was a little girl.”

She continues, “her strength, passion and soul are evident in her everlasting legacy, not only as a transcendent artist, but as a humanitarian and civil rights icon. To have the opportunity to bring her legacy to life and show the fullness of her being, her humanity and brilliance, is an honor.”

Now, while Erivo is playing Franklin in this series, we still have Jennifer Hudson playing her in her biopic. The movie is currently filming.