Tyrese Gibson Is Slated To Play Teddy Pendergrass In Upcoming Biopic

BYErika Marie3.0K Views
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Tyrese Gibson
Gibson said that Pendergrass asked him to tell his story before he passed away.

The Fast & Furious franchise has proven to be lucrative for Tyrese Gibson, and now the multi-dimensional artist is excited to announce that he'll be starring in an upcoming biopic about Teddy Pendergrass. The film about the R&B singer's life will be produced by Lee Daniels, Donald De Line for De Line Pictures, and Gibson's own Voltron Pictures. Joan Pendergrass, the singer's widow, takes the role of executive producer while Little Marvin has been called on to write the screenplay. Gibson, a Grammy-nominated singer who is no stranger to creating R&B hits of his own, seems to be a good fit for the role.

Pendergrass was a Philly native who was raised by a single mother after his father abandoned his family when Teddy was young. Pendergrass is known for his hits including "Turn of the Lights," "Close the Door," and "Love T.K.O.," and for belting out classic slow jams that have won the hearts of music lovers from all generations. Following an accident in 1982, Pendergrass was confined to a wheelchair, but that didn't stop him from returning to the stage to perform for his adoring fans before he passed away in 2010.

“I am honored to take this journey… this is the role that I feel I was born to play. Teddy Pendergrass embraced me and before he passed put the responsibility on my shoulders to tell his story,” Gibson said. “Being here in this time and in this space and moment with Lee Daniels, Donald De Line, Little Marvin, and Warner Bros is an answered prayer. Teddy, I just hope we make you, your wife and family proud… Here we go!!”


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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