Cynthia Erivo Will Lead Remake of “The Rose” for Searchlight

Cynthia Erivo will follow-up her portrayal of the Queen of Soul by playing a rock goddess. Hot off her depiction of Aretha Franklin in National Geographic’s “Genius: Aretha,” the Oscar-nominated actress has signed on to topline a remake of “The Rose” for Searchlight. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the news.

Described as a “contemporary take on the high price of fame,” “The Rose” tells the story of a self-destructive rock star “who struggles to deal with the constant pressures of her career and the demands of those around her.” Bette Midler starred in the original 1979 version of the pic.

No word on who will write or direct the remake. Erivo and Solome Williams are producing via their Edith’s Daughter banner.

Erivo received an Oscar nod in 2020 for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her depiction of Harriet Tubman in Kasi Lemmons’ “Harriet.” She also landed a Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures nomination for the biopic’s original song, “Stand Up.”

“The Outsider,” “Bad Times at the El Royale,” and “Widows” are among Erivo’s other credits. The Tony winner’s upcoming projects include a biopic about Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a 19th-century African princess and patron of Queen Victoria’s court, and “Talent Show,” a musical drama about a failed songwriter penned by “Queen & Slim” scribe Lena Waithe and directed by “Vida” helmer Gandja Monteiro.