Newcomer Ashlee Olivia Jones to Star as Eartha Kitt in Biopic
Ashlee Olivia Jones is the surprising but perfect pick to play Eartha Kitt in the upcoming biopic Eartha Kitt C’est Si Bon. Though new to mainstream Hollywood, Jones has wowed producers Diamond Monique Washington and Shadow Dragu-Mihai, who also penned the script.
“We went through literally hundreds of interviews searching for someone who could play Eartha Kitt,” says Washington. “Eartha isn’t just a favourite entertainer. She affected people’s lives with her presence. You can still feel her power when watching her performances and interviews. The actor who plays her must have the same presence.”
Dragu-Mihai adds, “Eartha Kitt is a true triple threat — singer, actor, and dancer trained by Katherine Dunham. The actress must also be a triple threat. Ashlee Olivia Jones is a deep acting talent, with top skills in singing and dancing. She fits perfectly.”
A Star-Studded Cast Brings History to Life
The casting is full of intriguing choices. Dani Lane, known from Kenan, plays young Eartha Mae. “Like Ashlee and Eartha, Dani Lane is one of a kind,” says Washington. “It took us years to find her.”
Other notable cast members include:
- Robert Beltran (Star Trek) as Orson Welles
- Cain Sparks (X-Files) as Ella Fitzgerald
- Trina Parks, famous as the first Black Bond girl (Thumper in Diamonds Are Forever), as Lucile Ellis and film choreographer
Dragu-Mihai: “We’re getting uniformly positive feedback about our cast. They’re beloved talents for a reason.”
Hunt On for Katherine Dunham Actress
Producers are still searching for an actress to play Katherine Dunham, Eartha Kitt’s legendary dance mentor. “Finding Katherine has been a similar challenge because she is unique,” says producer Leigh Ariana Trifari. “Like the rest of the cast, the choice will intrigue everyone.”
Release Date Set for September
Eartha Kitt C’est Si Bon is scheduled for release on September 23, 2023. Fans can look forward to a fresh take on the iconic performer’s extraordinary life.
