MGM Moves Aretha Franklin Film ‘Respect’ From January Release To August 2021

Deadline has reported that MGM/United Artists Releasing has delayed the release of the Aretha Franklin biopic Respect, starring Jennifer Hudson, from January 15 to August 13.

The moves come amid continuing uncertainty gripping the global theatrical business as theaters in several international territories reducing their hours of operation or close temporarily.

Respect initially was set to unspool in a Christmas Day platform release, but was moved in July to a wide opening this coming Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend. The film is directed by Liesl Tommy and stars Dreamgirls Oscar winner Hudson as the Queen of Soul, Forest Whitaker as C.L. Franklin, Marlon Wayans as Ted White, Mary J. Blige as Dinah Washington and Tituss Burgess as Rev. Dr. James Cleveland.