Bessie is a film decades in the making. Starring Queen Latifah, it tells the journey of Bessie Smith as she becomes “The Empress of the Blues.” Check out the teaser below.

Cast:

Queen Latifah – Bessie Smith

Michael Kenneth Williams – Jack Gee

Khandi Alexander – Viola

Mike Epps – Richard

Tika Sumpter – Lucille

Tory Kittles – Clarence

Oliver Platt – Carl Van Vechten

Bryan Greenberg – John Hammond

Charles S. Dutton – William “Pa” Rainey

Mo’Nique – Ma Rainey

Crew:

Director – Dee Rees

Executive Producer – Queen Latifah

Executive Producer – Shakim Compere

Bessie will debut on May 16 at 8/7c on HBO.

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