Are these 5 Women Better picks for the Role of Nina Simone?

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Five Better Picks for the Role of Nina Simone Than Zoe Saldana 

A large contingent of the black internet were up in arms at the news that Zoe Saldana is now replacing Mary J. Blige in a much-discussed Nina Simone biopic. Really? Because Zoe’s known for her deep speaking and singing voices? Because she’s known for singing at all? Because she bears such uncanny physical resemblance to Simone? Okay… 

Shadow and Act has confirmed the news, which began as a rumor. The film, which was slated to begin production last May, has been long-delayed – and there’s still no solid assurance that it will begin to shoot any time soon. The storyline will focus on Simone’s relationship with her manager, Clifton Henderson. The fabulous David Oyelowo is attached to that role. You’ll get no complaints from me on that one. But Zoe is even more questionable than Blige for this biopic, as Blige is, at least, a singer (though in order for either of them to really get to the core of Nina Simone’s voice, they would have to lip sync). 

No one’s arguing that Zoe isn’t an appealing onscreen presence and a rapidly rising star. But most would agree that, if she remains attached to this particular film, she will be woefully miscast. Here are a few experienced actresses who’d more fully fit the bill: 

1. Adepero Oduye 

Tambay O. Obenson of Shadow and Act has been vocal about his preference for the young Pariah star in the role of Nina Simone. Oduye has certainly proven that she can carry a film. She has the commanding presence and sensitivity to play Nina and it would be great to see what she would do with a role this iconic. 

2. Aisha Hinds 

I love Aisha Hinds. I’ve loved her in pretty much every role I’ve watched her play. I’ve been patiently waiting for her to score that one breakout performance that will catapult her from guest appearances on television dramas to the silver screen big time. Playing Nina Simone would definitely provide her that boost. 

3. N’Bushe Wright 

I’m starting to think Wright may be semi-retired. According to IMDB, she was in a comedy last year, A Talent for Trouble. But before that, her last acting credit was in 2005. If she’s interested in a comeback, I’d love to see her agent throw her hat into the ring for this role. 

4. Viola Davis 

This is the obvious choice, really, if it’s a film that wants any Oscar nods. Davis’s career is red-hot right now, and it’s likely she doesn’t have time to squeeze this in (or that she doesn’t want to do another biopic right now, as she has at least one other in the works). But her speaking voice and her powerful onscreen presence make her a shoo-in for consideration. 

5. India.Arie 

Look. I know she’s not an actress and maybe she has next to no interest in acting. But as soon as they started talking about a Nina Simone biopic, I started thinking about India.Arie as an obvious contender. Her singing voice and her physical appearance make her a viable candidate. 

What do you guys think? Can Zoe work in the role? Do you prefer any of our five picks? Would you like add your own?