André Leon Talley’s larger-than-life influence on the fashion industry will be documented in an exciting new documentary. 

The Gospel According to André (out May 25) chronicles the life of Vogue’s former editor-at-large, from his upbringing during the Jim Crow era in North Carolina where his grandmother’s impeccable style and taste influenced him, to his early days as a fashion editor in New York City where he worked at iconic fashion magazines like Interview, Women’s Wear Daily, and W, before eventually making it to Vogue. 

In this exclusive clip, Talley’s friends reflect on how this captivating young Black man from the South working in an industry with few people of color, was able to break through a plethora of boundaries. He owned whatever room he entered—including New York’s super exclusive nightlife in the 70s and 80s. 

“He became part of the landscape of New York,” recalls designer Diane Von Furstenberg. 

The Gospel According to André opens in select movie theaters on May 25.