Mahalia Jackson wasn’t just one of the greatest gospel singers ever. She was also an ambassador of change—joining her friend, Martin Luther King Jr.—to bring a message of equality and hope to people all over the world. Now, Lifetime brings her inspirational story to life in Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia, a two-hour original movie that follows Mahalia Jackson’s journey from obscurity to global stardom. Starring Danielle Brooks.
Slated to premiere on April 3 on Lifetime, a day before the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia biopic is the story of the New Orleans born crooner who began singing at an early age and went on to become one of the most revered gospel figures in U.S. history, melding her music with the civil rights movement. Her recording of the song “Move on Up a Little Higher” sold millions of copies, skyrocketing her to international fame and gave her the opportunity to perform at diverse settings including in front of a racially integrated audience at the prestigious Carnegie Hall and at John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball. An active supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, Jackson sang at numerous rallies, including the March on Washington in 1963 alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in hopes that her music would encourage and inspire racial equality.
Broadway stars Jason Dirden, Olivia Washington, Rob Demery, and Tony nominee Joaquina Kalukango co-star opposite Brooks.
Watch teaser
