Cynthia Erivo to Star in Upcoming Biopic About African Princess ‘Gifted’ to Queen Victoria
English actress, singer, and songwriter Cynthia Erivo is set to star in a new biopic about an African princess that was presented as a “gift” to Queen Victoria, and here’s what you need to know.
The Tony Award-winning and Oscar-nominated actress will star in a biographical film about Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a 19th-century African princess who was given as a gift to the Queen of England. Erivo will also produce the project. She recently portrayed Harriet Tubman in the 2019 biopic, Harriet.
British actor Benedict Cumberbatch (known for his work in Doctor Strange and Sherlock) will serve as the film’s executive producer. Producers include Solome Williams, Leah Clarke, and Adam Ackland (both from Sunnymarch Productions), and Rienkje Attoh (from So & So Productions). The film is being financed by BBC Films. The project is currently untitled, and no other casting information has been announced. A filming schedule or release date has also not been set.
Cynthia Erivo and Benedict Cumberbatch teaming on biopic of African princess “gifted” to Queen Victoria https://t.co/EfKkCIuLqL pic.twitter.com/Jg6WiZYDo5
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) December 3, 2020
According to Deadline, when talking about the upcoming film, Erivo said, “I am excited to embark on this journey. It has taken a long time to get to a point where we can even begin to realize this dream. As a Nigerian British woman, to get the opportunity to tell the story of another Nigerian British woman who until now has been erased from the history books, is an honor. Miss Sarah Forbes Bonetta, Omoba Aina, is truly a passion of mine and I’m so pleased to have been able to find partners in the incredible women, Leah Clarke and Rienkje Attoh, to tell the story and finally give her a voice. I cannot wait to dive into her story. She is indeed the forgotten princess, forgotten no more.”
We look forward to seeing the film when it comes out and will continue to support women of color and push for equality for all. While waiting for the movie, we will definitely be watching Harriet on repeat.
