Lizzo Set to Star as Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Amazon MGM’s Biopic ‘Rosetta’

Grammy Award-winning artist Lizzo is preparing for her first leading film role as she steps into the shoes of rock and roll pioneer Sister Rosetta Tharpe in the upcoming Amazon MGM Studios biopic, “Rosetta.”

The project marks a significant milestone for Lizzo, who is not only starring but also producing the film, aiming to shine a light on Tharpe’s enduring legacy as the “Godmother of Rock and Roll.”

In an exclusive interview with Paper, Lizzo expressed her enthusiasm for the role, describing it as both a challenge and an honor. “I’ve been approached about acting. I’ve gotten the opportunity to produce and star in the Sister Rosetta Tharpe film,” she revealed. “She deserves to be canonized.”

Lizzo, a classically trained flutist, is currently learning guitar to authentically portray Tharpe, widely credited as one of the greatest guitarists in music history and a trailblazer who laid the foundations for rock and roll. “She literally invented the electric guitar,” Lizzo said. “It’s early days, but I’m learning guitar right now.”

While the “About Damn Time” singer has earned plenty of accolades in her music career, Lizzo insists that her motivation goes beyond awards. “I’m not doing it because I want an Oscar. I want to make Sister Rosetta Tharpe a household name as big as Elvis. When people talk about rock ‘n’ roll, it begins with her.”

“Rosetta” will mark Lizzo’s first major film role. The project reflects her commitment to telling stories that celebrate overlooked icons and reshape cultural narratives. “When people talk about the roots of rock ‘n’ roll, it shouldn’t just start and end with Elvis or the Beatles. Sister Rosetta Tharpe should be part of every conversation,” Lizzo emphasized.

The film is still in early development, but anticipation is already high among music and film fans eager to see Tharpe’s influence brought to the big screen by one of today’s most dynamic performers.