Lifetime’s Aaliyah Biopic: The Princess of R&B has stirred up lots of controversy, so much so, it inspired lots of painfully funny memes shared by millions online. The backlash became so overwhelming that it even warranted a response by actress Alexandra Shipp. Although the Nickelodeon actress was aware of Aaliyah’s family’s disapproval of the film it did not deter her from taking the role. Upon receiving backlash here’s what she had to say about her portrayal and doing her job.
“As an artist I’m going to be doing things in my life that are going to be controversial and people are not always going to agree with it.. But at the end of the day, that is what art is. And so if I were to take anything away from this Aaliyah experience, is that I threw my blood, sweat, tears, heart and soul into portraying this woman and I hope that people like it. And if they don’t, well, that’s just art.”
Several actresses including Zendaya Coleman dropped the role due to the controversy prior to Shipp taking on the job. Missy Elliot’s character in the movie also bought on some fury. It was stated that Hollywood’s color and body issues are apparent in the casting of Aaliyah’s biopic.
As for Shipp, she also expressed her hopes that despite the initial set backs she felt the film was well done.
“I think that this is a great movie and I hope that they like it, When it comes to the controversy, I’m just an actress doing her job and trying to portray one of her icons. I don’t think very many people get the opportunity to do that. When it comes to portrayal, I think we did a really great job.”
Shipp is also said to to be releasing some music next month. Sweethearts, will you be looking out for the upcoming single?
Written By: Jazmine Abner
