Beyoncé has her goals for the new year ready to go, with plans to write and star in a biopic about Saartjie Baartmann. South African Baartmann was famous for her large bottom, which saw her feature as a ‘freak show’ attraction for four years before her death in 1815, at just 25 years old. Often used as an example of the ways in which black women have been degraded and mistreated throughout history, she has gone on to be the subject of activism, poetry, exhibitions and more – including adomestic abuse shelter in Caoe Town named after her.
According to The Sun, sources have revealed Beyoncé’s desire “to be taken seriously as an actress,” setting her sights on Academy Award recognition.
“She now wants to write a screenplay that gains her respect — and hopefully awards — from the film industry, and thinks Saartjie’s story could be her ticket,” The Sun writes.
The singer is reportedly doing extensive research on Baartmann’s life, indicating that this project is being made with the best intentions. If the plan goes ahead and is executed well, she will join the various individuals who have tried to heal the scars of the past and establish a sense of respect for Baartmann’s body, as well as those of other women of colour.
This is not Beyoncé’s first foray into the world of acting. In 2006, she was picked for one of the starring roles as Deena Jones, a character based on Diana Ross, in Dreamgirls. See one of her scenes below. She was also featured in Austin Powers film Goldmember and The Pink Panther.