Cynthia Erivo becomes Queen of Soul in Genius: Aretha trailer

Cynthia Erivo demands respect as she transforms into Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin in the trailer for a new series based on the singer’s life (Ian West/PA)

Cynthia Erivo demands respect as she transforms into Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin in the trailer for a new series based on the singer’s life.

British Oscar nominee Erivo plays Franklin in National Geographic’s Genius: Aretha, which will explore the revered US star’s career both on and off-stage, including her influential work supporting the civil rights movement.