If he takes the job, Whitaker will play Eugene Allen, a Black butler who lived in the White House and served eight presidents from 1952 to 1986. Allen witnessed history in the making and closely observed the presidents’ handling of the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Moment and several assassinations. Winfrey would play his wife — making this film her first since 1998’s Beloved.
Thus far, Daniels hasn’t secured any other actors, but reports say he’s eyeing Hugh Jackman, Liam Neeson and Mila Kunis to play other historical figures.
Red Tails star David Oyelowo is Daniels’ pick to play the couple’s son.
Do you think Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey have good onscreen chemistry?
