John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler Tapped as Leads in Upcoming Otis Redding Biopic

John Boyega attends the GQ Men Of The Year Awards 2022 at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London, England November 16, 2022.

Danielle Deadwyler arrives for the BAFTA Tea Party on January 14, 2023 in Beverly Hills, CA.

Photo Credit: Fred Duval/DFree

By: Joshua Martin

The Star Wars actor is channeling a new kind of star power as Otis Redding alongside Till actress, Deadwyler, in the upcoming biopic. Written and directed by acclaimed playwright, screenwriter and actor Donnetta Lavinia, this on-screen portrayal of the legendary musician’s career and the intricacies of he and his wife’s relationship has the full support of Zelma Redding and the Otis Redding estate. “Otis and Zelma” is the title of the film and will be directed by Channing Godfrey People and produced by Fifth Season, Homegrown Pictures and Kinfolk Management + Media. 

All of this news comes ahead of Redding’s posthumous induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame this Friday (Oct. 4th). Redding’s daughter, Karla Redding, will accept the star on behalf of her late father and Killer Mike will deliver a speech at the event. Ana Martinez, Producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies, shared her thoughts on Redding’s star dedication. 

“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is honored to dedicate a star to the legendary Otis Redding, whose music continues to inspire generations.”

— Ana Martinez, Producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies

According to reports, an early synopsis of the film “celebrates the 10 short years Otis and Zelma had together, and their eternal love story after his passing. Zelma’s resilience and determination to preserve his musical legacy for the last 56 years fuels her, just as much as Otis’ love for Zelma fueled him.”

At just the age of 26 years old, Otis Redding died tragically in a 1967 plane crash. Leaving behind his wife and three young children. The Georgia legend’s solo career earned him two Grammy awards, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Black Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

“He left so much special music for everybody. But I really have to commend my family and myself to continue this legacy because you cannot have a legacy if you don’t work it. We have everything we need for Otis Redding and that’s why we work so hard to preserve and protect his legacy. We wouldn’t know any way to do it without it.”

— Zelma Redding, Interview with BMI

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