John Boyega, Danielle Deadwyler To Lead Otis Redding Biopic ‘Otis & Zelma’ 

The story of Otis Redding and his wife Zelma is set to be portrayed by John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler in a new project. Exclusively reported by Variety, Otis And Zelma is the title of the film directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples, and produced by Fifth Season, Homegrown Pictures, and Kinfolk Management + Media.

Written by acclaimed playwright, screenwriter, and actor Donnetta Lavinia Grays, Otis And Zelma is fully supported by Zelma Redding and the Otis Redding estate. The news also comes ahead of Redding’s posthumous induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday (Oct. 4).

“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is honored to dedicate a star to the legendary Otis Redding, whose music continues to inspire generations,” stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies. Redding’s daughter, Karla Redding, will accept the star on behalf of her father. Killer Mike will deliver a speech while Jimmy Jam emcees the event.

According to Variety, an early synopsis of the film “celebrates the 10 short years Otis and Zelma had together, and their eternal love story after his passing,” adding “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.”

Otis Redding died tragically in a 1967 plane crash, leaving behind Zelma and three young children at just 26 years old. His solo career earned the Georgia legend 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,” shared Zelma in an interview with BMI last year. “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.”