CNN Films, in partnership with OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, has acquired Luther Vandross’ highly anticipated documentary, Luther: Never Too Much.
The film is set to premiere Jan. 1, 2025, at 8 p.m. on CNN, OWN, and Max.
According to the logline, “The film follows the iconic artist, Luther Vandross, as he charts his own course, becoming one of the most decorated and influential artists of all time.”
The documentary will include rare footage and images of Vandross. Additionally, it will include commentary from some of his closest friends and musical collaborators, including Mariah Carey, Dionne Warwick, Valerie Simpson, and Roberta Flack.
Luther: Never Too Much was directed by award-winning documentary filmmaker Dawn Porter. “I’m thrilled to partner again with CNN Films and OWN to bring this film to audiences,” says Porter. “Luther’s music is timeless, his legacy is unsurpassed, and we can’t wait for all of his fans new and old to experience his brilliance.”
“CNN Films has a long history of bringing audiences intimate portraits of their favorite musicians and Dawn has crafted a beautiful tribute to Luther Vandross,” adds Amy Entelis, executive vice president for talent, CNN Originals and creative development for CNN Worldwide. “It is an honor to reteam with her along with our partners at OWN to celebrate Luther’s enduring legacy and his iconic songbook.”
In addition to directing Luther: Never Too Much, Porter is also an executive producer. Other producers include Trish D Chetty and Ged Doherty for Raindog Films; Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner for Foxxhole Productions; and Leah Smith for Trilogy Films.
Joining Porter as executive producers are Colin Firth for Raindog Films; Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman for Sony Pictures Television Non-Fiction; Tom Mackay and Richard Story for Sony Music Entertainment; Jon Platt and Brian Monaco for Sony Music Publishing; and Phil Thornton.
In other news, Luther’s, the R&B group led by Vandross before he made his solo debut, second album, This Close to You, will be reissued on June 7. The album will be available digitally, as well as on vinyl and CD, via Primary Wave Music and Legacy Recordings.
The group’s self-titled debut album was reissued on April 19. “Bringing back Luther Vandross’ inaugural albums after forty years is not just a celebration of music; it’s a homage to a legend whose voice and artistry have shaped the soundscape of an era,” David Gottlieb, manager for The Luther Vandross Estate, exclusively told Rated R&B.
Gottlieb added, “These albums, resurfacing like timeless anthems, not only remind us of Luther’s unparalleled influence in music but also assure his legacy continues to resonate and inspire, echoing through the hearts of old fans and new listeners alike.”
See CNN and OWN’s Luther: Never Too Much announcement below.
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