‘Genius: Aretha’ — Photos
‘Genius: Aretha’ is an anthology series that focuses on Aretha Franklin’s musical genius and incomparable career, as well as the immeasurable impact and lasting influence she has had on music and culture around the world. Aretha was a gospel prodigy, an outspoken civil rights champion, and widely considered to be the greatest singer of the past 50 years. In ‘Genius: Aretha,’ Aretha Franklin is played by Oscar nominee and Grammy-winning artist Cynthia Erivo. Emmy winner Courtney B. Vance will play Aretha’s father, C.L. Franklin. Additional cast members include David Cross, T.I., Malcolm Barrett, Marque Richardson, Omar J. Dorsey, Kimberly Hebert Gregory, and more. The first two seasons of ‘Genius’ focused on Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso. ‘Genius: Aretha’ will premiere in the U.S. on National Geographic with double-stacked episodes across four consecutive nights, beginning on March 21. The premiere episodes will be available the next day on Hulu, culminating in a celebration of Aretha Franklin’s birthday, with all eight episodes available to stream by Thursday, March 25. See photos of ‘Genius: Aretha’ in our gallery now.
Cynthia Erivo As Aretha Franklin
Cynthia Erivo performing as Aretha Franklin, who is known as the Queen of Soul. Cynthia is an Oscar nomiee and has won a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy.
Courtney B. Vance As C.L. Franklin
Courtney B. Vance plays C.L. Franklin in ‘Genius: Aretha.’ C.L. was Aretha’s father.
Cynthia Erivo Singing As Aretha Franklin
Cynthia Erivo does her own singing in ‘Genius: Aretha.’ She has a tremendous voice of her own.
David Cross As Jerry Wexler
David Cross plays Jerry Wexler in the series. Jerry was a famed music producer.
Malcolm Barrett & Kimberly Hébert Gregory
Malcolm Barrett and Kimberly Hébert Gregory as Ted White and Ruth Bowen. Both Ted and Ruth managed Aretha’s career at points.
Malcolm Barrett As Ted White
Malcolm Barrett plays Ted White. Ted was Aretha’s first husband.
