According to Deadline, ABC Signature is currently in the process of developing a new limited series about American-born French performer and civil rights activist Josephine Baker with Oscar nominee Ruth Negga attached for the leading role. On top of starring, Negga will also be serving as an executive producer.
RELARED: Sundance 2021 Reviews: Judas and the Black Messiah, Passing & More!
The limited series is being described as a a raw and unflinching look at the force of nature that was Josephine Baker, the biggest Black female artist of her time. From international superstar and decorated WWII spy, to civil rights activist and flawed mother, Josephine delves into the raw talent, sexual fluidity, struggles, and bold life of an icon.
Baker is considered as one of the most influential female entertainers of the 20th century. At the young age of 15, she became the first Black woman to star in a major motion picture in 1927’s Siren of the Tropics. When she turned 19, she moved to France where she found success as one of Europe’s most popular and highest-paid performers. However, she was best known for her active role in the French Resistance during World War II and later on in the fight against segregation and racism in the U.S. during the 1950s-1960s
RELATED: George C. Wolfe to Helm Bayard Rustin Biopic For Netflix
Josephine will be written by Dee Harris-Lawrence with Emmy nominee Millicent Shelton set to direct. The project will be executive produced by Harris-Lawrence, Shelton, and LeBron James & Maverick Carter’s The Springhill Company.
Negga is best known for her acclaimed performance in 2016’s romantic drama biopic Loving where she first earned her first Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Best Actress. She will next be seen in Rebecca Hall’s directorial debut film Passing starring alongside Tessa Thompson.
