The 1989 film, adapted from Robert Harling’s autobiographical play, is a favorite of LGBT viewers. “We believe the movie is about community… and it’s a community of all types who fit together by a commonality of family,” Meron said to The Advocate when the project was first announced. “Very much like the gay community. We think that there are a lot of elements that gay viewers can relate to, with these ladies hanging together, growing together and dealing with the eccentricities of life and the strength they must face when there is a death among them at such an early age.”
My husband Michael can quote every line from the original movie.
Queen Latifah, who stars as M’Lynn, also serves as co-executive producer, along with producing team Neil Meron and Craig Zadan, with whom she collaborated on Chicago and Hairspray.
Rashad and Woodard will costar as bickering longtime friends Clairee and Ouiser, respectively. Grammy winner Jill Scott will play beauty shop owner Truvy, Pariah’s Adepero Oduye has been cast as her awkward protogee Annelle, while Tony Award-nominated Condola Rashad, daughter of Phylicia, will play the pivotal role of Shelby.
Lifetime has yet to announce the broadcast date for the film.
