Faith Evans is set the play the oft-forgot founder of The Supremes in an upcoming biopic.


 
Spirit of Life Films has announced that Faith will star as Florence Ballard in a biopic titled Blondie. For those of you unfamiliar with who Florence is, she’s the real-life equivalent of Effie White from Dreamgirls.


 
Florence was the original lead singer of iconic Motown girl group The Supremes. When the group went mainstream, she was shuffled to the back so Diana Ross could take center stage. The Supremes, producers for Blondie hope to shed new light on Florence's life.


 
“Not only is this about re-birthing Florence Ballard’s legacy and giving her the accolades that she has deserved for 34 years, it also offers her children an opportunity to know their mother better and celebrate her life,” said Karen Spencer, a partner at Spirit of Life Films.


 
Florence had three daughters, and they’re the ones who expressed a desire to have Faith portray their mother in the biopic. 


 
Faith has thrown herself into preparing to play Florence by studying her music and spending time with the deceased singer’s family. We expect that by the time Faith shows up on the film’s set in Atlanta, she will be well versed in her role.


 
Fans of R&B can look forward to a soundtrack packed with phenomenal talent, as Lauryn Hill and Kelly Price will be featured on the album for the film.


 
Blondie, based on the book The Lost Supreme, will be directed by Bille Woodruff and it’s slated for release next summer. 


-- Sonya Eskridge 


Here’s more:
Faith Evans is 'Gone Already'
Faith speaks on weekend arrest
New album, show for Faith Evans