A new biopic and companion documentary chronicling the life and legacy of Grammy Award-winning singer and pianist Roberta Flack are officially in the works. The projects, announced by Rock’n Robin Productions, the company founded by broadcast journalist Robin Roberts, will explore the extraordinary journey of one of music’s most celebrated and soulful voices.
According to a statement from the Roberta Flack Foundation, Roberts and her team have secured the life rights to Flack’s story, paving the way for both a scripted feature film and a documentary. The productions aim to capture the artist’s groundbreaking career, her influence across generations, and her enduring impact on music and culture.
“We are thrilled to add Roberta Flack to the illustrious list of American icons whose stories have been told by Robin Roberts and Rock’n Robin Productions,” the foundation said. “Roberta’s voice, artistry, and humanitarian spirit have touched the world in ways that deserve to be remembered and celebrated.”
Flack’s story is one of brilliance, grace, and quiet power. A classically trained pianist, she earned a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15 years old. Her genre-defying style — blending soul, jazz, R&B, and pop — propelled her to stardom in the 1970s with timeless hits such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love.”
Her collaboration with Donny Hathaway produced some of the most beloved duets in music history, including “Where Is the Love” and “The Closer I Get to You.” Flack went on to win four Grammy Awards and became the first artist to win Record of the Year in back-to-back years — for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (1973) and “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1974).
Beyond her music, Flack was an advocate for music education and the arts, establishing programs to nurture young talent. Her career reflected a lifelong commitment to artistry, emotional honesty, and social consciousness — qualities that the upcoming biopic and documentary intend to highlight.
While casting and production details have not yet been announced, the projects are expected to explore Flack’s early life in North Carolina, her ascent to stardom, and her personal and creative partnership with Hathaway, alongside her influence on future generations of musicians. The documentary will reportedly include never-before-seen archival footage and interviews with those closest to her.
The timing of these productions feels especially poignant following Flack’s passing earlier this year at the age of 88. Her music remains a defining part of the American songbook, celebrated for its tenderness, sophistication, and emotional depth.
As development moves forward, anticipation is building around who will portray the legendary singer and how the film and documentary will capture the quiet power that made Roberta Flack a singular voice in modern music.
Flack’s life was one of artistry and authenticity — and soon, her story will reach a new generation through the screen, ensuring that her timeless music and message continue to resonate for years to come.
