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Who’s the best candidate for the role of first lady?

the linster

To nobody’s surprise, rumors are rampant that a movie about Barack Obama is in the works. Will Smith has expressed interest in playing the president. But I’m much more interested in who the leading lady will be.

According to Liz Smith, two leading ladies have volunteered to be first lady Michelle Obama. Angela Bassett spoke up first, but Smith thinks she may be a bit too old, at 50, for the taste of casting directors. This is too old?

At 42, Halle Berry is closer to Mrs. O’s age (45) and certainly has the box office appeal and acting chops to match Smith.

But can high profile actors such as Smith and Berry really pull off playing the best-known couple in America? I’m not sure anyone can. And since speculation gives us an excuse to look at beautiful women, let’s consider the options.

Essence.com suggests Gabrielle Union and Tyra Banks.

I hate to say it, but what qualifies Union or Banks to play Ms. Obama other than good looks and black skin? Sure, they’re talented — but I just don’t see the connection.

My first thought was Jada Pinkett Smith, simply because the Obamas have such intense chemistry. If Will is the President, then who’s a better match than his real life catalyst?

You see the problem. Ms. Smith is tiny — way too tiny to be the First Lady, whose height is a big reason that the Obamas are such a handsome couple.

If we base casting on biceps — and we will, since it yields some good pictures — then perhaps a certain newly available actress is a fit.

I’m not sure I’m quite ready to see Bette with a man, but I’m always ready to see more of Jennifer Beals’ arms.

Another Tank Top Tuesday favorite, Rosario Dawson, also places high in the arms race.

But StuntDouble and Stunt's Girlfriend suggested the choice that has become my favorite: Regina King.

Sure, King is shorter and younger than Michelle Obama, but that’s what heels and makeup are for. And her work in Ray was incredible.

What do you think? Who’s the best candidate for first lady? Can known actors play the Obamas, or is it time for a new talent search?

the linster's blog

Submitted by

the linster

on March 9, 2009 - 12:30pm.

TAGS ::

Regina King,

Submitted by

Victoria (67 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 1:45pm.

and she must ware that gold dress!

I vote for Jada

Submitted by

Penny Winterr (821 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:07pm.

and use a little force perspective to make her look taller. If they can make Robbie Coltrane (as Hagrid) look ten feet tall or Brad Pitt (Benjamin Button) look four feet tall, then they can certainly make Jada look five inches taller.

Jada

Submitted by

Justyna (29 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:12pm.

My first thought (before I read the article) was Jada, but then... she really is short... But she would make a great First Lady, I'm sure.

Hm.

Submitted by

Ed Would (244 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:26pm.

Faintly amused that you made it sound as though StuntDouble's girlfriend is Regina King.

(Stunt)double take

Submitted by

piebald (121 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:27pm.

Yeah, I had to chew on that one for a while.

Sneaky

Submitted by

Ed Would (244 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:35pm.

Yep, but now the word order and punctuation has been edited, making my post completely void! The devils!

Heh-heh

Submitted by

the linster (1130 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:41pm.

All part of my evil plan to discredit you.

Ah

Submitted by

Ed Would (244 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 6:15pm.

I bloody knew it! Happily, there was nothing left to discredit.

With regards to the article, I don't think Will Smith should be in any movies, let alone a factual one.

I know!

Submitted by

the linster (1130 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:39pm.

I promise, the comma was a dash when I wrote it, but who knows what happens in Word's auto grammar correction? Honestly, though, I'm glad someone out there will call me on my punctuation. I'm so picky myself that I deserve close scrutinty.

Anyway, it's fixed -- hopefully before Stunt's GF found out she was dating Regina on the side!

Grace Jones from the 80s.

Submitted by

Sarjex (6 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:28pm.

Grace Jones from the 80s.

angela bassett

Submitted by

Yung Eso (24 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:32pm.

definitely angelia bassett...plus she's got the guns to match

but i could see gabrielle union or regina king playing the part as well

its my responsibilty to show emotion in my life
cuz otherwise it seems i'm going through the motions with my life

I vote for Angela

Submitted by

rowan1879 (33 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:42pm.

I vote for Angela Bassett, because as Yung Eso said, hello arms. But I'm a little worried her presence on screen would over-shadow Will Smith. And I really want Will Smith to play the president.

So, Gina Torres anyone?

http://www.imdb.com/media/rm578329344/nm0868659

She's got a comedy edge that would compliment Will Smith's well. And she's tall. And she has awesome arms. Ok, back off ladies, she's mine. ;-)

Gina Torres

Submitted by

Andi Torak (65 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 7:43pm.

AWESOME call on Gina Torres!! She'd be fantastic! She's so graceful and strong and smart. Oh, and very good looking. Can't forget that. :D

Taraji P. Henson

Submitted by

Becca_1948 (1 post)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:44pm.

Taraji P. Henson, a little young but still great!

I saw the headline of this article

Submitted by

Luce (907 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 2:55pm.

And immediately thought of Halle Berry myself. So I vote for her. I certainly think she and Smith can pull it off.

What characteristic is most important...

Submitted by

woRk of aRt (5 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 3:24pm.

...Age - Angela Basset

Looks/Arms - Rose Rollins

Popularity - Halle Berry

Chemistry to the leading man - Jada Pinkett Smith

Talent but short - Regina King

http://www.myspace.com/roserollinsfanpage

NEW TALENT

Submitted by

Chilaxing (312 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 3:41pm.

Without reading the article, I said to myself that an unknown talent will be best for the role. In terms of celebrities, I'll go with Tyra because of the height.

agree

Submitted by

Viva (2396 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 8:37pm.

I think Dalila or is it Dalyla? From Cherry Bomb will make a nice Michelle. She has the looks, and the whole alpha thing goin' on just throw some booster heels on her and we have a winner.

OMG YOU ARE A GENIUS!

Submitted by

Chilaxing (312 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 11:38pm.

OMG YOU ARE A GENIUS! Dalila would be the perfect candidate. I would watch just to see her. I'm crushing so bad **sighs**

She is

Submitted by

Viva (2396 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 6:03pm.

nice to look at, isn't she? You have to be blind not to see the resemblance.

I Vote Regina All The Way

Submitted by

swandiver (82 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 3:51pm.

Before I even clicked to read the article, Angela Bassett popped into my head as the most obvious choice. But I love Regina King and think she is one of the most underated actresses in Hollywood right now. I think she would best personify Michelle Obama's sense of class coupled with realness.

If you want to see her in a so-so film where she stands out, check out "Love And Action In Chicago"

----------

"Those who restrain desire, do so because theirs is weak enough to be restrained" - William Blake

www.swandiver.wordpress.com

Rose Rollins!

Submitted by

CoastalGal (47 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 3:54pm.

She'd be perfect- classic beauty, tall strong body, gorgeous smile. I just can't see Michelle doing that sexy Tasha laugh that I love so much, so she might have to tuck that away. I want to see Rose in beautiful Mrs. O clothes!

I can't believe AE didn't suggest her!

She's a baby!

Submitted by

the linster (1130 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:46pm.

I thought of Rose, but she is just 30. She definitely has the looks, though!

Rosario Dawson

Submitted by

Shazam (92 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 3:59pm.

I definitely think she'd be wonderful! I love her in everything she does, but I guess she might not look "black enough" for the role...

Angela Bassett would

Submitted by

jamlawgirl (480 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:08pm.

Angela Bassett would probably be the best choice. And if you're gonna talk about arms, I think she wins. Have you seen her arms?!

But Regina King would also be a great choice and I think Gabrielle Union could probably do a good job too.

Two words to the suggestion of Tyra: Hell No.

Torn

Submitted by

Zbornak (443 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:16pm.

between Rose Rollins and Angela Bassett. But Tyra? Well...she was okay in Higher Learning.....

Regina King.

Submitted by

USADOC36 (12 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:18pm.

Is my first choice, but Angela Bassett is a close second.

look alike for the first lady

Submitted by

luc (2 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 4:57pm.

gabriell union has my vote.

Who could pull it off?

Submitted by

zephyr (768 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 5:22pm.

Consider Michelle Obama's life and career, her physical appearance, the way she carries herself, how she speaks to a large audience or one-on-one. Also consider how she grew up, her family background and her symbolism within the African American community, the United States as a whole and the world at large. The person who comes closest to pulling that off is Angela Bassett. Next I would say Gina Torres. These two women would be the most believable based on their bodies of work and their overall presence.

While the other actresses have abilities in different areas, they just don't fit the overall bill. I could see Gabrielle Union as a young Michelle, but not now.

Halle Berry is lovely but not believable. Jennifer Beals is a wonderful actress, but you might as well suggest Meryl Streep or Julia Roberts. I mean really!?

There may be some less well-known actresses who could pull it off better than anyone mentioned so far. Perhaps a stage actress?

Of course there's always...

Submitted by

Spill Jill (106 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 6:03pm.

Kerry Washington.

kerry washington

Submitted by

Athena (20 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 8:18pm.

i was thinking the same thing....

yep.

Submitted by

noho (13 posts)

on March 11, 2009 - 10:00pm.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington.

I'm not too happy with the idea of "the fresh prince" being cast as Obama though. I'd much rather see someone like Hill Harper. Or even Vin Diesel.

Hill Harper

Vin Diesel

;)

If I were the casting agent. . . .

Submitted by

Tandy (125 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 6:13pm.

I don't have to lobby too hard for my choice, as I'm sure this 2008 Academy Award nominee is getting invited to audition for all the best roles right now.

HOWEVER, I may have to lobby for her to y'all!!

Here goes -- she is :

1. a statuesque, heartbreaking beauty

2. the perfect age,

3. can do stern/serious and light/charming with equal aplomb,

4. is wicked smart - it would be no stretch for her to play Princeton/Harvard and brilliant executive as well as madly affectionate mom

5. the limits of her hottttness are only now being explored -- and will never be fully mapped --- ALL of which is true of the First Lady.

---

I think it's way too early for a film and would only add to the conservative cries of President Obama's rock-stardom -- so I hope they put it off for a year or two. HOWEVER, when they DO make the movie, I hope she'll still be available, as I can't can't imagine ANYONE more perfect than

VIOLA DAVIS.

for those of you who did not see her Golden Globe-winning performance in Doubt, or her (gorgeous naked arm displaying) Tony-winning turn on Broadway, don't wait! Git yer Google on!

First off, a pic of her in the role that has made her career, and in her incredible HOTNESS on Oscar night:

http://74.125.47.132/search?q=cache:DGKWYQznr_IJ:www.splendicity.com/celeblook/tag/viola-davis/+Viola+Davis+.jpg&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=9&gl=us

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/photo.php?pid=1734970&id=622300848

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g6JBcpJNhw&feature=related

This is what the noise is all about! (this is long but you can start watching at 3:00 and see the part that matters) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Iy23LVFG1w&NR=1

clavicles! http://www.filmstew.com/Users/DailyNews/11134/ViolaDavis(SGranitz).jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tgzCtQbqAU

This clip shows that she's a strong woman of conviction and will speak her mind with gravitas, just like the First Lady -- you only need to see the last 25 seconds: begin at 1:25: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY5y7F7DWR4&feature=related

Oh Yes

Submitted by

Zbornak (443 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 6:54pm.

Viola Davis is just about perfect! She blew me away in Doubt and when she was on the short lived CBS drama City of Angels. She was totally robbed on Oscar night!

Viola Davis

Submitted by

Anonymous

on March 10, 2009 - 6:59pm.

www.myspace.com/lunakiss7.com

Tandy,I don't know her. I want to know all about her. Thanks for letting us know who she is. She looks like a great candidate for the First Lady role.

I will check out her links.

Naomi Cambell (sp)

Submitted by

sapphistafricana (300 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 6:55pm.

Naomi has the body...I don't know about the acting skills.

There's also Sanaa Lathan and Sophie Okonedo.

or...Vanessa L. Williams

There are two

Submitted by

zephyr (768 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 7:05pm.

Do you mean Vanessa L. Williams as in Ugly Betty, or do you mean Vanessa Williams from Soul Food the series?

Rosario!!

Submitted by

Andi Torak (65 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 7:50pm.

Rosario Dawson Rosario Dawson Rosario Dawson Rosario Dawson Rosario Dawson!!!!!!!!!!!

Her in Rent? Yummy.

First 'Lady'

Submitted by

Christine (12 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 9:46pm.

Viola Davis, hands down.

LOVE Regina King!

Submitted by

capitaltimes (31 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 10:11pm.

How about a new leading man, though?? I like Will Smith but he just doesn't seem right-and definitely too tall for my girl Regina. What about Denzel Washington? I'm gonna throw out another leading male name but I think I'll get a lot of heat for it. What about Eddie Murphy? He's actually a little older than the prez and closer to Regina's height and he can be pretty serious when he's not partying all the time:) I don't know, even though he and Regina were great in "Enemy of the State," I just don't see Will Smith in this role.

Hmmm

Submitted by

Brownskindivaa (15 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 10:19pm.

I suggest Kimberly Elise.

Oh

Submitted by

Brownskindivaa (15 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 10:20pm.

And Jaime Fox for president.

I have no clue how tall/short either of them are, but they can work that out with camera tricks and what not.

Um ....

Submitted by

happykt (187 posts)

on March 9, 2009 - 10:43pm.

What about Viveca Fox?

As far as I'm concerned the

Submitted by

Salaam (68 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 12:13am.

As far as I'm concerned the buck stops with Angela Basset as First Lady. But what about Denzel Washington as Prez? Both of them are high caliber actors and around the same age as the characters they would be playing. Basset looks about 10 years younger than she is, and I really think Washington could really pull it off. They could also realistically make him look younger than he is if necessary. I think the part would be played similarly to his role as Malcolm X.

Smith doesn't have the regality of Obama or Denzel, and he doesn't play 'stoic' well. I could never see him as The President.

OOOH! What about Isaiah Washington? or Gary Dourdan, 'Warrick' on CSI? Just throw some brown contacts in Dourdan's eyes and you're set.

...After looking at the pictures again...I guess Smith has an edge up on everyone else when it comes to the ears...eh.

PS...Viveca A. Fox is Bat Poop Crazy.

Forget that!

Submitted by

Brittany (7 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 12:16am.

Forget that!

I say Omarosa!!!!!

Anyone else agree???

HEY!!!

Submitted by

Salaam (68 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 12:22am.

Don't wish that false boob-ded devil woman on the public as supposed first lady!!!

haha

Submitted by

Brittany (7 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 12:31am.

i know i was kidding.

But you have to admit...they look alike.

I don't have to admit

Submitted by

Salaam (68 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 12:34am.

I don't have to admit ANYTHING. :-P

Nuh-uh. Not gonna do it.

Cicely Tyson or Phylicia

Submitted by

No1duckie (3 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 2:03am.

Cicely Tyson or Phylicia Rashad

You got to be kidding

Submitted by

Indigoray (6 posts)

on March 10, 2009 - 10:36am.

Yes, both Cicely Tyson and Phylicia Rashad are incredible actresses, but Cicely is in her 70s and Phylicia in her 60s. Sorry, but movie magic isn't that good.

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