In a 1977 performance and a series of interviews stretching to 1993, Diana Ross shares her take on Josephine Baker, whose biography she planned to produce and star in.
. I had the immense privilege and the honor to have worked with Miss Baker in 1975 @ Bobino. I was the youngest dancer in the cast . The show was called “ Josephine “ It was based on her life story celebrating her 50 years in show business from her humble beginning in St Louis to her triumphant comeback in Monte Carlo ....She used to call me “ her little page “ (Son petit page )cause of my age ! I just turned 18 th on April 1st 1975. luckily for me I have tons of memorable pics from the show as well as unforgettable stories of this short but amazing Run . ! She was extremely engaged with all of the dancers like a second mother . Wanting to know everyone ‘s names Josephine really truly care about people She was a true legend immensely talented beautiful ,elegant ,generous , humble & kind . She would bring oranges for the entire company saying “ My children you need lots Vit C for strength and energy “ She was so right cause the rehearsals were long and grueling ,,,. Bobino ‘s stage was too small to accommodate a cast of 8 boys 12 girls 3 comedians 1 little girl (who played young josephine ) and 1 gorgeous dancer who performed the famous banana dance ....so they had to transformed the stage by expanding it ; including putting additional seats in the theater and building brand new dressing rooms to accommodate such a big cast all while we were practicing in the lobby of The theater. ! It was bit chaotic to say the list & quite cold being mid -February But no one seemed to care cause it was so exciting to be part of this legendary show ! None of the big Paris music ‘halls like Le Casino de Paris ,Le Moulin Rouge or les Folies Bergére wanted to take the risk producing Miss baker mostly for insurance purposes There were already rumors circulating of her failing health but finally a small theater on Paris left bank called Bobino took a chance ...Josephine liked to rehearsed late at night after we were done .She even enjoyed having her favorite dish Spaghetti bolognese around 1 am at a restaurant right across the theater. I will never forget the 1 st time I saw her performing once the stage was finally ready. That night She was in the audience watching us dancing with huge smile on her face applauding many times throughout being so proud of the cast. After all she was watching part of her whole life story in front of her eyes. ... In fact during the promotion of the show a French journalist asked her. “ How does it feel to be the starring in a musical retrospective of your own life story ? She replied “ it’s wonderful ..At least i will get to see what they think of me when I am still around !!!! I When we were done the director Andre levasseur said “ josephine c ‘ est a vous “ she jumped on stage and belt a song from the Brazilian number called” Que c‘est bon de vivre” She seemed to be completely possessed by the rhythm of the Afro Cuban sound very reminiscing of “Princess Tam-Tam “ all those years earlier Her moves were so unbelievable. Her body was in perfect shape specially in her Chanel suit !!!! There is No way you would have guessed that this beautiful lady was in her late 60 ‘s. A goddess still !!!! What thrill for me. A true MASTER CLASS ,,,,,,, I ‘ve enjoyed this documentary immensely specially listening the immensely talented Andre Levasseur speaking so kindly about her I just wanted to make few points . We rehearsed the show for about 1 month and half . We actually did more than 4 performances. We started with one week of previews on March 25 th with a special Press night on march 31 st to glorious reviews ! We had another full week of performances with a big opening gala on April 8 th with stars like Grace Kelly Sophia Loren & Alain Delon among many however neither Jackie ‘O ,Diana Ross or Liza Minelli ever attended any of performances . We had another show on the 9 th . She felt into a coma the 10 th and past in the early hours on the 12 th. We were invited VIP at her funeral ..Miss Baker had full military honor at la Madeleine church She reposes at the cemetery of Monaco. I went recently to pay my respects 45 years later. Josephine paved the way for Diana Ross Madonna Beyoncé and many other artists. A true legend. Unparalleled. ❤️❤️❤️.check Photo of Bobino with La Baker et moi. Just Type. “Josephine and me Cittaroma P “.
Diana attended a show Josephine did in Los Angeles, which is where the connection Diana spoke of happened. You should produce a blog or even a vlog of your experiences and photos. You have an invaluable first person account of Josephine's late performances. Please consider sharing it with the world. There are still many fans.
I felt transported to the true golden years of performing art. Thanks endlessly for sharing such a warm and vivid experience with the true best world Vedette, Josephine Baker. It would be a fabulous thing if her lif
DIANA ROSS IS A PACKAGE. IT'S NOT JUST HER SINGING OR ACTING BUT IT'S ALSO HOW SHE PUTS IT ALL TOGETHER TO PRESENT AND NO ONE DOES IT BETTER. IT'S DOESN'T MATTER ABOUT THE FEW WHO THINKS HER TALENT IS AVERAGE VRS THE BILLIONS OF PPL WHO LOVED AND LOVES HER TALENT AND TO THIS DAY KEEPS HER SOARING 💣
@@michaelreilly3513 He said that despite the fact that Diane Ross is moderately talented, there are still "billions" of people who still love her. And despite the fact that they didn't want to attend her rtl scam. In other words, he's delusional.
Diana is sooooooo beautiful just listening to her seeing her my godd I don't need song waooooo 😄😄😄❤❤ have you seen her She is a living legend. !!!!@@@@@
Joanna Bridge why you say that I don't know ... probably as much as any of her pairs in the industry who knows what they do to get the perfection or something else. She's not known for that so I rather say no 😞☺but she is a star so maybe not to much. ..because there is much bigger transformation going around ..so it doesn't matter for me What a meant is that she is really really beautiful ..her talk ,her voice and shapes like naturally amazing So who cares about that
This is a very interesting historical account of the evolution of Diana's long attempt to achieve this project. It shows how difficult it can be even for stars of Diana's caliber.
I wanted her (as a fan) to be more of an actress than a singer because she was not afraid to be ugly and she was more grittier and could go there even in the intense scenes in "Mahogany" and "Lady Sings the Blues".
An American Scheme Michael looks nothing like Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson he looks like his FAMILY! 😂 yal conspiracy theorist be off the chain wit it lol
If Diana did not let her ego get in the way, should would've been a superstar in the movies. She should've let Stephanie Mills play her iconic role of Dorothy Gale in the film production of the "Wiz". That by itself, did not help her career at all. Plus, the estate of Josephine Baker had something to do with Diana Ross not making the cinema production of her life. Diana Ross was not their choice at all.
@@Calvin375 Stephanie Mills was never even considered to be in the movie, she herself said that when the movie was being made before Diana she didnt received any call or nothing, she even said that she got the sense that they didnt want to do nothing with her, the original plan for the movie was to get a young newcomer and unknown actress for the part
Oh please honey. I mean yes you're right. Lynne Whitfield's interpretation of the woman was outstanding and was thorough enough that no one can really bring much more to the role than what Lynne has already contributed. I don't know, Diane probably could have played a decent Josephine Baker. But if she had been born the same color as Joan Crawford, I'm sure it would have only taken a simple screen test to assure producers that she was perfect for the role that was won by Faye Dunnaway in Mommie Dearest. And I believe that combined with the use of method acting, she could have played the spots off of that heifer!:........."Now you won't have anyone to disturb YOU when you're trying to get YOUR rest Cristina darling".
IT WOULD HAVE BEEN GREAT FOR THE DIVINE JOSEPHINE BAKER AND THE FABULOUS DIANA ROSS IF THAT MOVIE COULD HAVE BEEN MADE , BECAUSE NO ONE SHOULD EVER FORGET JOSEPHINE BAKER , AND A MOVIE STARRING DIANA ROSS WOULD HAVE GIVEN HER LIFE THE SPOTLIGHT IT DESERVES ! IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A WIN FOR BOTH STARS AND FOR THE WHOLE WORLD ! WHAT A SHAME !
The estate of Josephine Baker did not want Diana Ross to portray her on the big screen. That's why the movie was never made. She always had opposition in trying to do the production. Now, that she's old, it will never be done by her. Lynn Whitfield's dynamic performance is the only reference we will ever have of the legendary performer!
@@SmoothCinnamonX Well, you need to contradict the actual interviewees who actually were interviewed as to why the movie was never made and they proclaim; the estate; not Josephine herself, whom was already deceased, did not want Diane to do the movie.
Josephine Baker was extremely intelligent and spoke multiple languages ...English and French with an understanding of other languages as well. Only (one) Josephine Baker no one I mean no one can ever take her place.
It is truly a mislaid to art that Diana Ross never got to personify Mrs. Baker's life in a motion picture. I certainly awaited a lifetime to see that happening. Yet, I feel that Mrs. Ross still can superbly pull that project off. There are many options to explore and to make that wonderful dream come through for her and for us, her legion of fans. Knowing Diana's spirit it remains a big mystery to me that she let it at rest for too long.
Reportedly, shortly after the success of "Lady Sings The Blues", Josephine Baker contacted Berry Gordy about casting Miss Ross to portray her in a film, but, the talks fell through because Mr. Gordy felt that Miss Baker's rights fee was too high.
@neonmoon82 What does his refusal to pay an excessively high rights fee have anything to do with his being a nice person? I don't understand. IIRC, he was a very nice person...when you did your job.
vangoghmatisse1 Without question classically beautiful, extraordinarily gifted, & a majestic presence on the stage that turns into screen magic when in the cinema, the 1rst time I heard that beautiful soprano voice, I found my thrill, when I saw her on t.v., it was all over...
John London Sure was not! I think Diana would have done a great job too!! Josephine Baker’s story was was how I was introduced to Lynn Whitfield! Life is full of so many awesome surprises..
To be very honest and in reality, the estate did not want her to portray the legendary performer. Diana Ross was not Josephine Baker's choice at all. Just like Aretha Franklin's choice was for Jennifer Hudson to portray her in her own biopic. When asked ( Aretha) would she consider Queen Latifah to portray her, she said "NO".. point blank.
Ethal waters was such a great human being ! Love Josephine baker ? I have know words for miss Baker she was a Great star & human being . I'm just a young white boy from Delaware but I truly know talent !!!
Josephine had a showgirl body type, relatively tall and slim but athletic. The only famous black woman I can think of with a similar build was Altovise Davis, Sammy's wife... it's rare to find an actress built like that. Still, I think Diana would've done a great job as Josephine. It is odd, however, that for a woman she admired and had been doing research on for her next project that she got her birthplace completely wrong.
Diana Ross there will be there will be one Dyna Ross nobody🌧️ c🌧️oul be like her she has so much class she's always smiling and so cheerful and entertaining and that's why she is a Class Act I can imagine when they do her movie and her what your beautiful she's she's she's so stylist a lot of people could learn from he💣💨 God bless her one of your biggest fans Erica and Michael my👆👏 husband God bless. 👆 you and your family,. ☝️ 👌💋 ☝️ ☝️. 👆 🏆
Diana Ross is truly beautiful but she could never. Have the heart and soul of Josephine Baker. It's so sad no one will ever replace Josephine Baker she was one of a kind way ahead of our time one of the greats
Lynn Whitfield was wonderful in “The Josephine Baker”. Stylistically, it reminded me very much of “Lady Sings the Blues”. For better or worse, she played the role pretty much like Diana!!
Yes I agree. Lynn Whitfield did a wonderful job. Diana already portrayed Billie Holiday so she should have given well wishes instead of criticism. She should feel gratification in knowing that her performance in Lady Sings the Blues opened the door for other actresses to portray legendary women. Lynn Whitfield’s Josephine Baker, Angela Bassett’s Tina Turner, Halle Berry’s Dorothy Dandride, Queen Latifah’s Bessie Smith, etc.
She had been working on that movie for years and years and never got it done with all her millions. Josephine Baker performed well into her 70s. Dianna Ross could easily portrait Josephine In the later years. She just has to buckle down and do an independent release - if she want to. I heard she cried when Lynn Whitfield did it. Josephine also had an extended chance meeting with a Young Disco Queen and rumor was, See wanted her to do movie.
I personally am glad she did not portray Josephine Baker. She really is a great actress. Watching Lady Sings the Blues I don't see Billie Holiday, I see Diana Ross. A lot of bio pics on Black Women get it wrong by casting poorly. Just like they did with Zoe playing Nina Simone.
Thanks you so much for all you have done for me and sharing the love to the family the human beings. The children sometime have to learn the past to receive the goals in there life. Learning from your grandma is our first teacher and our mothers. Love child will show others the way. Tenfold beautiful
I did hear her right on Arsenio, didn't I? That Josephine Baker is turning over in her grave because Diana didn't get to play her in the made-for-cable movie??! LOL Now that is truly a DIVA. :-)
JOSEPHINE BAKER PULLING DIANA ROSS HAIR SOUND KINDA SHADY MISS BAKER PROB WAS THINKING WHO SHE THINK SHE IS SOMEONE PROB TOLD HER DIANA ROSS WAS IN THE AUDIENCE AND MISS ROSS WAS WELL KNOWN THEN MISS BAKER WAS BEING SHADY
Such a shame that the late great Phyllis Hyman or Nancy Wilson couldn't have done Josephine Baker. Imagine someone of a Phyllis Hyman or Nancy Wilson or Lena Horne caliber playing Billie holiday. Now that would have been truly something special
Nancy was an incredible jazz artist likewise Phyllis was an incredible artist however, you need someone with magnetic charisma like Diana Ross plus they both have lyrical (lighter) voices.
I think 🤔 💭she did a awesome amazing job at times I forgot that it was lynn Whitfield and not ms.josephine Baker I have the movie 🎥 I love ❤️ it I watch it all the time .
Lynn whitfield did a great job, unfortunately, no one remembers the film and no one talks about it either. Diana Ross' portrayal in a major theatrical release would have given Josephine Baker's legacy more visibility in the mainstream...Like it did with Billie Holiday. LSTB is considered a classic, it's taught in schools, it's aired on tv networks around the world to this day, people remember it, people STILL talk about 40+ years later...that's the difference.
Would have loved to see Diana do more acting. Know she was heartbroken about not being able to play Josephine. Many will never admit it, but if she did, we would only see Ms Ross...not Josephine. No matter how good the acting could be. Bio pics need to be played by people who can really act and look eerily similar to the subject. If it is someone Black, the skin color matters. The height and weight matters.
@@scottdellrobinsonYou're correct as far as Black goes. However, the so called Negroes that were slaves in America (and their offspring) we are Israelites from the tribe of Judah. Our ancestors escaped to Africa then we were scattered amongst the Nations (Deuteronomy 28 KJV) due to our disobedience to the Most High God.
Diana was up against many things in trying to make that movie about Josephine Baker. First of course back then it was even harder to get a film with a black actress green lit particularly because black movies ( unless a spectacle like an action adventure ) didn’t sell internationally or in home video. Also it was a period piece about a French woman so not exactly commercial in the US. Finally Without Motown’s backing Diana didn’t get another film made for theaters. She needed a financial partner and clearly Motown didn’t get behind the film due to its lack of commerciality. Not many knew who Josephine was in the US. Billie had more of a following with her iconic songs and Motown’s financial backing. The Wiz flopping also hurt Diana’s film career. She never had a theatrical film again.
@@Kreatures100 I enjoyed the Wiz, but most movies I love the critics hate ☺️. Yes then and sadly now the backing financially is not there. People though have to push for it as well.
@@marliseisrael3017 agree but the good news for Diana is she didn’t need movies for money as some actresses did as she had an Uber successful concert touring career to the tune of 250 million net worth. Big singers like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga and Diana have other streams of income to fall back on. In fact they usually lose money to do a film as they can make so much more touring. Diana made 1000,000,00 per movie. In that 10 week filming spam she averaged 250k per concert so would be making 2,500.000.00 though some goes to musician and costume cost she still probably nets $2,000.000.00.
1 st of all” le Cesar award “was created in 1976. So there is no way that story bout the standing ovation happened for “ lady sings the blues “ which came out 1972. I am surprised that Michel drucker did not correct her perhaps Miss Ross was confusing with the “Cannes Festival “in 1972 which josephine attended ....Also that story with josephine holding her hair and starring in the eyes without saying a word it’s cause she knew Miss Ross wanted to play her in a movie but Miss Baker was never found of her. I ve worked with both ladies. One was very generous kind caring. The other one was rude obnoxious & bitter. I let you decided who was who
HBO can never be trusted,that's it. They are a very cruel network,and they have a history of that. Without saying Diana understands in this business you don't always get what you want,but I think she must've done her research thoroughly and presented her idea to HBO one way or another,and they took the "script" and decided to have a younger actress instead,and left her in the wind.
Lynn Whitfield did an okay/nice job acting, but she did not BECOME Josephine. Diana when she acts becomes that person. Years later, who is really seeking that movie? That decides a truly good movie, when it draws all persons past its creation.
@@Michelle-pn9xt Exactly! My sister met Rhonda Ross while shopping years ago. My sister recognized her and asked if Diana Ross was her mother and said yes. She preferred her anonymity because she didn’t want people to know and my sister respected her privacy. I met her cousin years ago.
Diana Ross did a horrible job portraying Billie Holiday, so I don't know if I'd want to see her attempt to try Josephine Baker and ruin that role too. Lynn Whitfield did a decent job in the movie anyway, though I wouldn't mind a remake with more information about Ms. Baker's life.
I thought she was terrific. But the movie didn't really focus much on Billie Holiday's career nor did it do her legacy justice . It mostly centered around her drug addiction and her relationship with Louis McKay. How Billie and Louis' relationship was depicted in the film wasn't accurate at all. Louis McKay wasn't the good guy. He was abusive. Louis was a technical advisor for the film.
Michael Neel Diana Ross took both if those bitches from the depth of poverty to the heights of fame & fortune. She did that with her dazzling talent, electricity, & pure magic
Is that why Flo died on welfare ??? Also you know nothing & have read nothing . It was Flo who started the act ! Not Diana or Mary . But even Mary hates Diana . Pickup a book some time !!!
Read who started the group & who was the original singer ? Sounds like you never picked up a book & just go by gossip . Yes she drank but Diana sucked & i'm not talking about singing . Take a few dollars & buy so books . Maybe read Mary Wilsons first !??
@@michaelneel4828 l was a fan of the Supremes since 1964 l was 8yrs old and heard All three Supremes lead. True Florence and Mary could sing and lead.But Diane voice Stood out a very Different kind of sound l Never heard before or since.It wasnt Black it wasn't White..in btw but very glamorous pretty and light like glass.Dionne Warwick had a voice in her 20s that was neither Black nor White..Whitney Houston didnt have a Black sound or a White sound It was a sound.And thats what Diana had and still Have.A sound.You could hear Big and Loud on Any street corner.Mary herself along with Flo wanted to sing the soulful stuff.Nothing wrong with that except there are all kinds people in this world more than soul or black sounding.Diana voice Appealed to ALL races colors.Cross over.Berry wanted to make music for all people black white other.The Supremes would Not have crossed over with Flo or Mary's voice on Lead. They already had The Marvelettes and Vandellas.They didnt last because they only want to do the soulful stuff which was geared to their voices and talent. Like Today All the singers sound alike. Motown everyone sounded Different.Vandellas One Lead Martha.Marvelettes 2 leads Gladys Wanda...Mircales 1 Lead Smokey Temptations 3 Leads using David Eddie FYI l have a degree in English and Literature so yes l Do occasionally pick up a book cuddles👺
perth45 he didn't say she had no talent but average. let's be objective, compared to her contemporaries or even her fellow group members (Florence/ Mary) was she the most musically gifted?
Agreed. Today's standard if you're not screaming like Patti Labelle you're not talented. It's like saying Rihanna has average talent because Adele has bigger lungs.
@Hannah Obsiye Diana Ross was, indeed, the most talented. She can sing ANYTHING in its original form, and never lose herself. Watching and listening to their live concert performances, it's clear that Diana Ross undersang most of the time, but, when the stage was theirs alone, she wailed like no one's business, with perfect jazz/pop phrasing, bluesy feeling and gospel/soul inflections. She NEVER had to scream to get her point across. There's nothing "average" about Diana Ross' musical talents...when she actually bothers to sing in her full voice.
You can hear and feel her sincerity and her admiration for Josephine Baker. I love Miss Ross!
TS Xtina Me Too!!
AMEN
Madame Josephine Baker was born in segregated St. Louis, MO. and not Baltimore, MD. as Ms. Ross had said.
Me too. These women thrived at a time where horror was normalized
Diana is beautiful inside and out and “upside down” 😂
. I had the immense privilege and the honor to have worked with Miss Baker in 1975 @ Bobino. I was the youngest dancer in the cast . The show was called “ Josephine “ It was based on her life story celebrating her 50 years in show business from her humble beginning in St Louis to her triumphant comeback in Monte Carlo ....She used to call me “ her little page “ (Son petit page )cause of my age ! I just turned 18 th on April 1st 1975. luckily for me I have tons of memorable pics from the show as well as unforgettable stories of this short but amazing Run . ! She was extremely engaged with all of the dancers like a second mother . Wanting to know everyone ‘s names Josephine really truly care about people She was a true legend immensely talented beautiful ,elegant ,generous , humble & kind . She would bring oranges for the entire company saying “ My children you need lots Vit C for strength and energy “ She was so right cause the rehearsals were long and grueling ,,,. Bobino ‘s stage was too small to accommodate a cast of 8 boys 12 girls 3 comedians 1 little girl (who played young josephine ) and 1 gorgeous dancer who performed the famous banana dance ....so they had to transformed the stage by expanding it ; including putting additional seats in the theater and building brand new dressing rooms to accommodate such a big cast all while we were practicing in the lobby of The theater. ! It was bit chaotic to say the list & quite cold being mid -February But no one seemed to care cause it was so exciting to be part of this legendary show ! None of the big Paris music ‘halls like Le Casino de Paris ,Le Moulin Rouge or les Folies Bergére wanted to take the risk producing Miss baker mostly for insurance purposes There were already rumors circulating of her failing health but finally a small theater on Paris left bank called Bobino took a chance ...Josephine liked to rehearsed late at night after we were done .She even enjoyed having her favorite dish Spaghetti bolognese around 1 am at a restaurant right across the theater. I will never forget the 1 st time I saw her performing once the stage was finally ready. That night She was in the audience watching us dancing with huge smile on her face applauding many times throughout being so proud of the cast. After all she was watching part of her whole life story in front of her eyes. ... In fact during the promotion of the show a French journalist asked her. “ How does it feel to be the starring in a musical retrospective of your own life story ? She replied “ it’s wonderful ..At least i will get to see what they think of me when I am still around !!!! I When we were done the director Andre levasseur said “ josephine c ‘ est a vous “ she jumped on stage and belt a song from the Brazilian number called” Que c‘est bon de vivre” She seemed to be completely possessed by the rhythm of the Afro Cuban sound very reminiscing of “Princess Tam-Tam “ all those years earlier Her moves were so unbelievable. Her body was in perfect shape specially in her Chanel suit !!!! There is No way you would have guessed that this beautiful lady was in her late 60 ‘s. A goddess still !!!! What thrill for me. A true MASTER CLASS ,,,,,,, I ‘ve enjoyed this documentary immensely specially listening the immensely talented Andre Levasseur speaking so kindly about her I just wanted to make few points . We rehearsed the show for about 1 month and half . We actually did more than 4 performances. We started with one week of previews on March 25 th with a special Press night on march 31 st to glorious reviews ! We had another full week of performances with a big opening gala on April 8 th with stars like Grace Kelly Sophia Loren & Alain Delon among many however neither Jackie ‘O ,Diana Ross or Liza Minelli ever attended any of performances . We had another show on the 9 th . She felt into a coma the 10 th and past in the early hours on the 12 th. We were invited VIP at her funeral ..Miss Baker had full military honor at la Madeleine church She reposes at the cemetery of Monaco. I went recently to pay my respects 45 years later. Josephine paved the way for Diana Ross Madonna Beyoncé and many other artists. A true legend. Unparalleled. ❤️❤️❤️.check Photo of Bobino with La Baker et moi. Just Type. “Josephine and me Cittaroma P “.
Diana attended a show Josephine did in Los Angeles, which is where the connection Diana spoke of happened. You should produce a blog or even a vlog of your experiences and photos. You have an invaluable first person account of Josephine's late performances. Please consider sharing it with the world. There are still many fans.
I felt transported to the true golden years of performing art. Thanks endlessly for sharing such a warm and vivid experience with the true best world Vedette, Josephine Baker. It would be a fabulous thing if her lif
@@jesusbello7260 thank you for the kind words. She was a trailblazer with Grace and Humility
DIANA ROSS IS A PACKAGE. IT'S NOT JUST HER SINGING OR ACTING BUT IT'S ALSO HOW SHE PUTS IT ALL TOGETHER TO PRESENT AND NO ONE DOES IT BETTER. IT'S DOESN'T MATTER ABOUT THE FEW WHO THINKS HER TALENT IS AVERAGE VRS THE BILLIONS OF PPL WHO LOVED AND LOVES HER TALENT AND TO THIS DAY KEEPS HER SOARING 💣
Could you speak up please, I can't quite hear you?
@@michaelreilly3513 He said that despite the fact that Diane Ross is moderately talented, there are still "billions" of people who still love her. And despite the fact that they didn't want to attend her rtl scam. In other words, he's delusional.
@@punkanellylovejoy702 Yes, I was being sarcastic as the person above wrote all in caps which is like screaming, oh dear :/
@@michaelreilly3513 yeah I caught that lol. It's obvious how you were responding to him lol
Diana is so beautiful
It’s a real pity Diana didn’t act more and in great projects. As Billie Holiday she blew me away
wow Diana is beautiful 😍
Diana is sooooooo beautiful just listening to her seeing her my godd I don't need song waooooo 😄😄😄❤❤ have you seen her
She is a living legend. !!!!@@@@@
Did she bleach her skin
Joanna Bridge why you say that I don't know ... probably as much as any of her pairs in the industry who knows what they do to get the perfection or something else. She's not known for that so I rather say no 😞☺but she is a star so maybe not to much. ..because there is much bigger transformation going around ..so it doesn't matter for me
What a meant is that she is really really beautiful ..her talk ,her voice and shapes like naturally amazing
So who cares about that
Joanna Bridge She didn’t bleach her skin. Lighting and photography was different in the 60s and 70s. It wasn’t advanced as it is now.
SuperGlopper I think so too she didn't changed the camera evolved and pictures
SuperGlopper
so they use lighting to take away her beauty that's not good if that is how you explain the change in her colour
I would've loved to see Diana portray Josephine Baker!
Chris Perkins true, but Lynn Whitfield did a terrific job
Me too even though Lynn Whitfield did a phenomenal job
Chris Perkins watch the movie. shes amazing in it. google it
Carl Milton Its actually free on youtube, and it has good quality!
OMG, i wanted DR for that movie soooo bad!!!!!
This is a very interesting historical account of the evolution of Diana's long attempt to achieve this project. It shows how difficult it can be even for stars of Diana's caliber.
I wanted her (as a fan) to be more of an actress than a singer because she was not afraid to be ugly and she was more grittier and could go there even in the intense scenes in "Mahogany" and "Lady Sings the Blues".
Dylan Diana Ross got Pregnant at age 14 by Smokey Robinson. Then so they could become Famous, they gave their Baby Michael to the Jackson's.
An American Scheme Michael looks nothing like Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson he looks like his FAMILY! 😂 yal conspiracy theorist be off the chain wit it lol
@@AnAmericanScheme You sound extra STUPID and CRAZY!
If Diana did not let her ego get in the way, should would've been a superstar in the movies. She should've let Stephanie Mills play her iconic role of Dorothy Gale in the film production of the "Wiz". That by itself, did not help her career at all. Plus, the estate of Josephine Baker had something to do with Diana Ross not making the cinema production of her life. Diana Ross was not their choice at all.
@@Calvin375 Stephanie Mills was never even considered to be in the movie, she herself said that when the movie was being made before Diana she didnt received any call or nothing, she even said that she got the sense that they didnt want to do nothing with her, the original plan for the movie was to get a young newcomer and unknown actress for the part
I thought Lynn Whitfield did a fantastic job portraying Josephine Baker.
Lynn did a wonderful job
Oh please honey. I mean yes you're right. Lynne Whitfield's interpretation of the woman was outstanding and was thorough enough that no one can really bring much more to the role than what Lynne has already contributed. I don't know, Diane probably could have played a decent Josephine Baker. But if she had been born the same color as Joan Crawford, I'm sure it would have only taken a simple screen test to assure producers that she was perfect for the role that was won by Faye Dunnaway in Mommie Dearest. And I believe that combined with the use of method acting, she could have played the spots off of that heifer!:........."Now you won't have anyone to disturb YOU when you're trying to get YOUR rest Cristina darling".
Thomas Finnell: 💐💐💐You're right!!Lynn Whitfield really did a fantastic job acting as Josephine Baker🥀💐💐💐
@@punkanellylovejoy702 🥱🥱
Lynn did more for the role, Diana definitely would've gotten lost in character doing Josephine Baker, could've been as bad as Heathe ledger
I remember her back in 1983 I believe when she performed at Central Park. What a performance 👌🙌🌷💓
IT WOULD HAVE BEEN GREAT FOR THE DIVINE JOSEPHINE BAKER AND THE FABULOUS DIANA ROSS IF THAT MOVIE COULD HAVE BEEN MADE , BECAUSE NO ONE SHOULD EVER FORGET JOSEPHINE BAKER , AND A MOVIE STARRING DIANA ROSS WOULD HAVE GIVEN HER LIFE THE SPOTLIGHT IT DESERVES ! IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A WIN FOR BOTH STARS AND FOR THE WHOLE WORLD ! WHAT A SHAME !
Lynn Whitfield was amazing as Josephine Baker. But I wish Diana's project could've gotten made.
The estate of Josephine Baker did not want Diana Ross to portray her on the big screen. That's why the movie was never made. She always had opposition in trying to do the production. Now, that she's old, it will never be done by her. Lynn Whitfield's dynamic performance is the only reference we will ever have of the legendary performer!
@@SmoothCinnamonX Well, you need to contradict the actual interviewees who actually were interviewed as to why the movie was never made and they proclaim; the estate; not Josephine herself, whom was already deceased, did not want Diane to do the movie.
She has such grace and beauty
A class act.
Josephine Baker was extremely intelligent and spoke multiple languages ...English and French with an understanding of other languages as well. Only (one) Josephine Baker no one I mean no one can ever take her place.
The lady with the golden voice.
Beautiful Diana Ross !
I Luv the 2 QUEENS, JOSEPHINE & DIANA💖
It is truly a mislaid to art that Diana Ross never got to personify Mrs. Baker's life in a motion picture. I certainly awaited a lifetime to see that happening. Yet, I feel that Mrs. Ross still can superbly pull that project off. There are many options to explore and to make that wonderful dream come through for her and for us, her legion of fans. Knowing Diana's spirit it remains a big mystery to me that she let it at rest for too long.
CLASS,CLASS,CLASS !!!
Reportedly, shortly after the success of "Lady Sings The Blues", Josephine Baker contacted Berry Gordy about casting Miss Ross to portray her in a film, but, the talks fell through because Mr. Gordy felt that Miss Baker's rights fee was too high.
TheReturnofStephan1 No she said of there was going to be anybody that played are life story she wanted it to be Pat Cleveland
@xavierdh2000
IIRC, the account that I posted was written by Mr. Gordy, in his autobiography.
He has no reason to lie.
I believe the story about Barry Gordy. He had plenty of money but he was not the nicest of people.
@neonmoon82
What does his refusal to pay an excessively high rights fee have anything to do with his being a nice person?
I don't understand.
IIRC, he was a very nice person...when you did your job.
You do realize that Josephine Baker herself was already dead when all of this was going on.
Miss Ross the boss I love her much as life
You poor thing.
THE BOSS!
vangoghmatisse1 Without question classically beautiful, extraordinarily gifted, & a majestic presence on the stage that turns into screen magic when in the cinema, the 1rst time I heard that beautiful soprano voice, I found my thrill, when I saw her on t.v., it was all over...
The ULTIMATE DIVA OF COLOR
Thank your plotting the story behind this project . I think it would have been great to see her as Joséphine baker..l but somethings aren’t to be.
John London
Sure was not!
I think Diana would have done a great job too!!
Josephine Baker’s story was was how I was introduced to Lynn Whitfield!
Life is full of so many awesome surprises..
To be very honest and in reality, the estate did not want her to portray the legendary performer. Diana Ross was not Josephine Baker's choice at all. Just like Aretha Franklin's choice was for Jennifer Hudson to portray her in her own biopic. When asked ( Aretha) would she consider Queen Latifah to portray her, she said "NO".. point blank.
That’s probably why she snatched her by her hair-lol!
Ethal waters was such a great human being ! Love Josephine baker ? I have know words for miss Baker she was a Great star & human being . I'm just a young white boy from Delaware but I truly know talent !!!
The BOSS!!!! Queen Diva!!!
Anthony Stone Diana Ross was Michael Jackson's real mother!!
@@AnAmericanScheme you are on every set with this bogus foolishness. You need to get yourself some serious help. I mean you need medication.
@@baibeej6391 Go watch my newest video, then tell me if i'm just a fool.
Josephine had a showgirl body type, relatively tall and slim but athletic. The only famous black woman I can think of with a similar build was Altovise Davis, Sammy's wife... it's rare to find an actress built like that. Still, I think Diana would've done a great job as Josephine. It is odd, however, that for a woman she admired and had been doing research on for her next project that she got her birthplace completely wrong.
Ikr?!?
Diana Ross there will be there will be one Dyna Ross nobody🌧️ c🌧️oul be like her she has so much class she's always smiling and so cheerful and entertaining and that's why she is a Class Act I can imagine when they do her movie and her what your beautiful she's she's she's so stylist a lot of people could learn from he💣💨 God bless her one of your biggest fans Erica and Michael my👆👏 husband God bless. 👆 you and your family,. ☝️ 👌💋 ☝️ ☝️. 👆 🏆
Wow!
Diana Ross is truly beautiful but she could never. Have the heart and soul of Josephine Baker. It's so sad no one will ever replace Josephine Baker she was one of a kind way ahead of our time one of the greats
Josephine Baker was born in St. Louis not Baltimore
Josephine Baker was from St Louis
Goddess
Lynn Whitfield was wonderful in “The Josephine Baker”. Stylistically, it reminded me very much of “Lady Sings the Blues”. For better or worse, she played the role pretty much like Diana!!
Bochanable A Diana imitator, which there are so many of
Yes I agree. Lynn Whitfield did a wonderful job. Diana already portrayed Billie Holiday so she should have given well wishes instead of criticism. She should feel gratification in knowing that her performance in Lady Sings the Blues opened the door for other actresses to portray legendary women. Lynn Whitfield’s Josephine Baker, Angela Bassett’s Tina Turner, Halle Berry’s Dorothy Dandride, Queen Latifah’s Bessie Smith, etc.
@@Tantamani So true... Share the stage of wealth/talent. 👍🏽
She had been working on that movie for years and years and never got it done with all her millions. Josephine Baker performed well into her 70s. Dianna Ross could easily portrait Josephine In the later years. She just has to buckle down and do an independent release - if she want to. I heard she cried when Lynn Whitfield did it. Josephine also had an extended chance meeting with a Young Disco Queen and rumor was, See wanted her to do movie.
No...she was born in 1906 and died at 68, Apr 8, 1975.
Erica Papillion-Posey no biggie April 12 th 1975.
nice work !
(sighs) Diana Ross got Josephine Baker’s birthplace wrong. She was born in St. Louis, not Baltimore.
Exactly, yet she would've done better...
🤔 Yes,l noticed that too that she got that wrong.
Was thinking that was off. I know Billie's life like my own! I always loved history. Especially ours.
Oops.. Nerves?
With Arsenio Hall Diana's hair and makeup really suited her that way
🤔 Yes,l agree. Especially the hair.
No she looked the worst that way imo
Beautiful black natural women no weaves no long ass lashes
I personally am glad she did not portray Josephine Baker. She really is a great actress. Watching Lady Sings the Blues I don't see Billie Holiday, I see Diana Ross. A lot of bio pics on Black Women get it wrong by casting poorly. Just like they did with Zoe playing Nina Simone.
I think that this is her one big regret. She never got to fulfill this dream.
Thanks you so much for all you have done for me and sharing the love to the family the human beings. The children sometime have to learn the past to receive the goals in there life. Learning from your grandma is our first teacher and our mothers. Love child will show others the way. Tenfold beautiful
I did hear her right on Arsenio, didn't I? That Josephine Baker is turning over in her grave because Diana didn't get to play her in the made-for-cable movie??! LOL Now that is truly a DIVA. :-)
That's why they did not want her because of her DIVA attitude!
Why didn't she get to do this film?
I worked with both ladies one was kind humble and generous the other was a DIVA. Really not necessary!
You figure it out who is who. Hope she mellowed since then
❤
JOSEPHINE BAKER PULLING DIANA ROSS HAIR SOUND KINDA SHADY
MISS BAKER PROB WAS THINKING
WHO SHE THINK SHE IS SOMEONE PROB TOLD HER DIANA ROSS WAS IN THE AUDIENCE
AND MISS ROSS WAS WELL KNOWN THEN
MISS BAKER WAS BEING SHADY
Please do it!
Ms. Josephine Baker was born in St. Louis. MO, and not Baltimore, MD
Such a shame that the late great Phyllis Hyman or Nancy Wilson couldn't have done Josephine Baker. Imagine someone of a Phyllis Hyman or Nancy Wilson or Lena Horne caliber playing Billie holiday. Now that would have been truly something special
Lena was too old to play Billie Holiday on screen - they were around the same age. Lena born in 1917 and Billie in 1915.
Nancy was an incredible jazz artist likewise Phyllis was an incredible artist however, you need someone with magnetic charisma like Diana Ross plus they both have lyrical (lighter) voices.
Miss Baker was born in St Louis
Did she ever get to make that movie? I don't remember one.
No, she never made the movie. She was prohibited from doing so.
@@Calvin375 How was she prohibited??
I think 🤔 💭she did a awesome amazing job at times I forgot that it was lynn Whitfield and not ms.josephine Baker I have the movie 🎥 I love ❤️ it I watch it all the time .
Thank goodness it was a project that never happened. Lynn Whitfield did it greater justice.
Lynn whitfield did a great job, unfortunately, no one remembers the film and no one talks about it either. Diana Ross' portrayal in a major theatrical release would have given Josephine Baker's legacy more visibility in the mainstream...Like it did with Billie Holiday. LSTB is considered a classic, it's taught in schools, it's aired on tv networks around the world to this day, people remember it, people STILL talk about 40+ years later...that's the difference.
@@missfit8650 such a shame that someone of a Nancy Wilson or Phyllis Hyman caliber didn't play Billie holiday
@@missfit8650 The reason it was not made is because Josephine Baker and her estate did not choose Diana Ross. They did not want her.
@@Calvin375 where did you learn that?
Would have loved to see Diana do more acting. Know she was heartbroken about not being able to play Josephine. Many will never admit it, but if she did, we would only see Ms Ross...not Josephine. No matter how good the acting could be. Bio pics need to be played by people who can really act and look eerily similar to the subject. If it is someone Black, the skin color matters. The height and weight matters.
Black is a color and not a race of people. She is African or of African descent.
@@scottdellrobinsonYou're correct as far as Black goes. However, the so called Negroes that were slaves in America (and their offspring) we are Israelites from the tribe of Judah. Our ancestors escaped to Africa then we were scattered amongst the Nations (Deuteronomy 28 KJV) due to our disobedience to the Most High God.
Diana was up against many things in trying to make that movie about Josephine Baker. First of course back then it was even harder to get a film with a black actress green lit particularly because black movies ( unless a spectacle like an action adventure ) didn’t sell internationally or in home video. Also it was a period piece about a French woman so not exactly commercial in the US. Finally Without Motown’s backing Diana didn’t get another film made for theaters. She needed a financial partner and clearly Motown didn’t get behind the film due to its lack of commerciality. Not many knew who Josephine was in the US. Billie had more of a following with her iconic songs and Motown’s financial backing. The Wiz flopping also hurt Diana’s film career. She never had a theatrical film again.
@@Kreatures100 I enjoyed the Wiz, but most movies I love the critics hate ☺️. Yes then and sadly now the backing financially is not there. People though have to push for it as well.
@@marliseisrael3017 agree but the good news for Diana is she didn’t need movies for money as some actresses did as she had an Uber successful concert touring career to the tune of 250 million net worth. Big singers like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga and Diana have other streams of income to fall back on. In fact they usually lose money to do a film as they can make so much more touring. Diana made 1000,000,00 per movie. In that 10 week filming spam she averaged 250k per concert so would be making 2,500.000.00 though some goes to musician and costume cost she still probably nets $2,000.000.00.
1 st of all” le Cesar award “was created in 1976. So there is no way that story bout the standing ovation happened for “ lady sings the blues “ which came out 1972. I am surprised that Michel drucker did not correct her perhaps Miss Ross was confusing with the “Cannes Festival “in 1972 which josephine attended ....Also that story with josephine holding her hair and starring in the eyes without saying a word it’s cause she knew Miss Ross wanted to play her in a movie but Miss Baker was never found of her. I ve worked with both ladies. One was very generous kind caring. The other one was rude obnoxious & bitter. I let you decided who was who
😂
@@tonynegron1927 😇
Baker from Baltimore?
She got it wrong Josephine Baker was born in St Louis that's embarrassing.
HBO can never be trusted,that's it. They are a very cruel network,and they have a history of that. Without saying Diana understands in this business you don't always get what you want,but I think she must've done her research thoroughly and presented her idea to HBO one way or another,and they took the "script" and decided to have a younger actress instead,and left her in the wind.
Lynn Whitfield did an okay/nice job acting, but she did not BECOME Josephine. Diana when she acts becomes that person. Years later, who is really seeking that movie? That decides a truly good movie, when it draws all persons past its creation.
Eh, it would have been Josephine Baker as Diana Ross.
The best Josephine Baker was and is Joan Baker.
*Matatan (:(".®."):) Ribirin H-S*
Diana she should portrait Bette Davis . Very similar face and eyes. Just wrong skin color.......
Ms baker did not care for Miss Ross.
Traci Ross will never be her Mother..biracial opened more doors for Traci...poor Rhonda still struggling. Ross is a star...
Girl .. why u being so negative?
@@wendy10tv jealousy
@@Michelle-pn9xt Exactly! My sister met Rhonda Ross while shopping years ago. My sister recognized her and asked if Diana Ross was her mother and said yes. She preferred her anonymity because she didn’t want people to know and my sister respected her privacy. I met her cousin years ago.
I cannot believe this is ashlee Simpson's mother in law...... ugh....
Yes honey. The Ross fortune is soon to end up in the hands of Whites as her offspring apparently only see beauty in the White race.
Diana Ross did a horrible job portraying Billie Holiday, so I don't know if I'd want to see her attempt to try Josephine Baker and ruin that role too. Lynn Whitfield did a decent job in the movie anyway, though I wouldn't mind a remake with more information about Ms. Baker's life.
randomuser1105 I completely agree
I thought she was terrific. But the movie didn't really focus much on Billie Holiday's career nor did it do her legacy justice . It mostly centered around her drug addiction and her relationship with Louis McKay. How Billie and Louis' relationship was depicted in the film wasn't accurate at all. Louis McKay wasn't the good guy. He was abusive. Louis was a technical advisor for the film.
They didn't ask you Diana because Josephine was a caring & giving person ! Something you are not ! Ask poor dead Flo or Mary !!!
Michael Neel Diana Ross took both if those bitches from the depth of poverty to the heights of fame & fortune. She did that with her dazzling talent, electricity, & pure magic
Is that why Flo died on welfare ??? Also you know nothing & have read nothing . It was Flo who started the act ! Not Diana or Mary . But even Mary hates Diana . Pickup a book some time !!!
@@michaelneel4828 Florence was a Drunk and couldnt sing
Read who started the group & who was the original singer ? Sounds like you never picked up a book & just go by gossip . Yes she drank but Diana sucked & i'm not talking about singing . Take a few dollars & buy so books . Maybe read Mary Wilsons first !??
@@michaelneel4828 l was a fan of the Supremes since 1964 l was 8yrs old and heard All three Supremes lead. True Florence and Mary could sing and lead.But Diane voice Stood out a very Different kind of sound l Never heard before or since.It wasnt Black it wasn't White..in btw but very glamorous pretty and light like glass.Dionne Warwick had a voice in her 20s that was neither Black nor White..Whitney Houston didnt have a Black sound or a White sound It was a sound.And thats what Diana had and still Have.A sound.You could hear Big and Loud on Any street corner.Mary herself along with Flo wanted to sing the soulful stuff.Nothing wrong with that except there are all kinds people in this world more than soul or black sounding.Diana voice Appealed to ALL races colors.Cross over.Berry wanted to make music for all people black white other.The Supremes would Not have crossed over with Flo or Mary's voice on Lead. They already had The Marvelettes and Vandellas.They didnt last because they only want to do the soulful stuff which was geared to their voices and talent. Like Today All the singers sound alike. Motown everyone sounded Different.Vandellas One Lead Martha.Marvelettes 2 leads Gladys Wanda...Mircales 1 Lead Smokey Temptations 3 Leads using David Eddie FYI l have a degree in English and Literature so yes l Do occasionally pick up a book cuddles👺
A real diva with average talent.....
Garry G lol when you have a great manager, people will buy a tin foil can filled with air and still cherish it. Sales don't equate to talent.
Never argue with hate
perth45 he didn't say she had no talent but average. let's be objective, compared to her contemporaries or even her fellow group members (Florence/ Mary) was she the most musically gifted?
Agreed. Today's standard if you're not screaming like Patti Labelle you're not talented. It's like saying Rihanna has average talent because Adele has bigger lungs.
@Hannah Obsiye
Diana Ross was, indeed, the most talented. She can sing ANYTHING in its original form, and never lose herself. Watching and listening to their live concert performances, it's clear that Diana Ross undersang most of the time, but, when the stage was theirs alone, she wailed like no one's business, with perfect jazz/pop phrasing, bluesy feeling and gospel/soul inflections. She NEVER had to scream to get her point across.
There's nothing "average" about Diana Ross' musical talents...when she actually bothers to sing in her full voice.