Secrets Behind the Making Of Selma

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Oprah Selma

Oprah’s Hesitancy

Oprah was initially only signed on as a producer for Selma, and only did so after being coaxed by David Oyelowo, whom she had become friends with while filming The Butler. Then Ava DuVernay suggested that Oprah play civil rights activist Annie Lee Cooper, who famously punched Selma Sheriff Jim Clark. Oprah – or rather, her The Color Purple character Sofia – famously punched the mayor’s wife in the film and the media mogul didn’t want to play another person who punches somebody out, but she said yes to the role when DuVernay informed her that Cooper used to watch The Oprah Winfrey Show every day while eating a tuna fish sandwich. Not only did Oprah have an opportunity to honor Cooper, she also wanted to honor the legacy of Dr. and Mrs. King.

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