Lady Sings the Blues

(1972)Directed by Sidney J. Furie144 min · RDrama, Music
Diana Ross is Billie Holiday. Diana Ross sings Billie Holiday. And a superstar is born.

Chronicles the rise and fall of legendary blues singer Billie Holiday, beginning with her traumatic youth. The story depicts her early attempts at a singing career and her eventual rise to stardom, as well as her difficult relationship with Louis McKay, her boyfriend and manager. Casting a shadow over even Holiday's brightest moments is the vocalist's severe drug addiction, which threatens to end both her career and her life.

Diana Rossas Billie Holiday
Billy Dee Williamsas Louis McKay
Richard Pryoras Piano Man
James T. Callahanas Reg Hanley
Paul Hamptonas Harry
Sid Meltonas Jerry
Virginia Capersas Mama Holiday
Yvonne Fairas Yvonne
Isabel Sanfordas The Madame
Tracee Lylesas The Prostitute
Ned Glassas The Agent
Milton Selzeras The Doctor
Norman Bartoldas The Detective #1
CTClay Tanneras The Detective #2
Jester Hairstonas The Butler
Bert Krameras The Policeman
Paul Micaleas The Maitre d'
Michele Alleras The Singer
Byron Kaneas The Announcer
Barbara Minkusas Radio Actress
Kay Lewisas Angela DeMarco
Helen Lewisas Debbie McGee
George Wyneras The M.C.
Shirley Mellineas The Policewoman