MARY J. BLIGE TO PLAY NINA SIMONE!

Mary J. Blige is heading to the big screen to portray one of Jazz music’s legendary voices. According to “The Hollywood Reporter,” Blige has signed on to play Nina Simone in Cynthia Mort’s upcoming film “Nina.” The project will reportedly focus on Simone’s relationship with her assistant Clifton Henderson, who will be played by David Oyelowo. “Nina” is set to start filming this fall, but a release date has yet to be announced. Mary J. Blige’s previous film credits include the 2009 romantic comedy “I Can Do Bad All By Myself,” as well as appearances on the shows “30 Rock,” “Ghost Whisperer,” and “The Jamie Foxx Show.”