When Warner Bros.’ 2023 movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “The Color Purple” began casting and production, many fans of the 2015 revival — and its Tony-winning lead actress, Cynthia Erivo — were surprised that its star would not reprise the role that made her famous for the big screen. After all, her Tony-nominated co-star Danielle Brooks got the gig to again play Sofia, with producer Oprah Winfrey’s personal blessing.
Instead, one of the stars of the original Broadway musical from 2005, “American Idol” winner Fantasia Barrino, landed the coveted (and demanding) role of Celie. (Barrino replaced original star LaChanze to lead the production in 2007.)