Usher Reveals He Almost Had A Role In ‘Dreamgirls’
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49 Did you know that Usher almost had a role in Dreamgirls?
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, the “Let It Burn” singer stopped by The Jennifer Hudson Show with some surprise news. He revealed that he was up for a role in the hit film which garnered Jennifer Hudson her first Oscar award. She portrayed Effie White in the 2006 movie musical.
During their conversation, Usher said that saw her audition tape for a film he had heard she was preparing for.
“You didn’t know that I was supposed to be a part of that movie, this movie you went on to win a major, major award for,” Usher shared. “Are you talking about Dreamgirls,” Hudson exclaimed. “Wait, you were going to be in Dreamgirls?”
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“Yes”, Usher responded.
“I didn’t even know this, y’all,” said a shocked Hudson.
“I didn’t know you didn’t know the story,” Usher replied.
Usher went on to explain that he touring at the time, and “it was a scheduled conflict that caused me to not be able to play the character.”
While he didn’t disclose what role he was being considered for, Playbill reported in May 2005 that he was set to play C.C. White, Effie’s brother in the film. Keith Robinson was eventually cast in the role.
“I was so excited for what was getting ready to happen and I tried my hardest to kind of work around it, but, unfortunately, schedule just didn’t permit,” he said. “I would have been a part of the history with you.”
“But I am a part of the history with you because we all celebrate you for such an encouraging talent for our young women out here,” he continued.
Hudson had another idea where could collaborate with
“Well, since we didn’t get to work together on Dreamgirls, maybe one day we could do a duet or something,” she said
Of course, Usher agreed.
The film adaptation of the hit 1981 Broadway musical. The cast included Loretta Devine, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Jennifer Holliday, who played Lorrell Robinson, Deena Jones, and Effie, respectively. Hudson starred alongside Beyoncé and Anika Noni Rose, who portrayed Deena and Lorrell, respectively.