Synopsis
The story of legendary blues performer, Bessie Smith, who rose to fame during the 1920s and '30s.
Cast

Queen Latifah
Bessie Smith

Mo'Nique
Ma Rainey

Mike Epps
Richard

Tika Sumpter
Lucille

Michael Kenneth Williams
Jack Gee

Charles S. Dutton
William 'Pa' Rainey

Bryan Greenberg
John Hammond

Oliver Platt
Carl Van Vechten

Khandi Alexander
Viola

Tory Kittles
Clarence
Kamryn Johnson
Young Bessie
Rikki McKinney
Chorus Guy
Alan T. Coleman
Stagehand
Clay Chappell
'81' Theatre Owner
Sharan C. Mansfield
Miss Taylor

Neko Parham
Rehearsal Director

Onira Tarés
Chorus Girl

Jhoni Davis
Chorus Girl

Jim R. Coleman
Host
Melissa Youngblood
Theatergoer

Jennifer Sears
Ma's Main Girl

Briana Starks
Ma's Dancer

Todd Allen Durkin
Nightclub Manager

Crystal Lee Brown
Bessie's Dancer
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