Luther Vandross Doc Coming to Theaters This Fall, Will Premiere on CNN, OWN, Max in 2025 (Exclusive)

Luther Vandross Doc Coming to Theaters This Fall, Will Premiere on CNN, OWN, Max in 2025 (Exclusive)

As a lifelong R&B enthusiast who grew up grooving to Luther Vandross‘ soulful tunes, I am absolutely thrilled about the upcoming release of Luther: Never Too Much. This documentary promises to delve deep into the life of an artist whose music was a soundtrack to my adolescence and beyond.


As a longtime fan of Luther Vandross’ soulful and powerful voice, I am absolutely thrilled to hear that the documentary Never Too Much, focusing on the legendary R&B singer’s life and career, is set to hit theaters this fall. Growing up in the 80s and 90s, Vandross’ music was a staple in my household, filling our home with his smooth and captivating melodies that resonated deeply within me. I can still remember the emotions his songs evoked and the memories they created for me and my family.

Giant Pictures has taken up the task of releasing the movie, which first appeared at Sundance Film Festival and subsequently screened at Tribeca Festival, Hot Docs International Film Festival, and Nantucket Film Festival. In 2025, the documentary titled “Luther: Never Too Much” is set to debut on CNN, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and Max. This documentary emerges approximately two decades after the eight-time Grammy winner passed away in 2005 at the age of 54 following a stroke in 2003.

“Dawn Porter, the acclaimed director of this movie, expressed her pleasure working on it. She noted that Luther was an exceptionally gifted actor, musician, and producer. His impact could be seen across various genres, and it was a treat to uncover each one. The experience has been enjoyable as both old fans rekindle their love for him and new admirers appreciate his genius.”

Larry Vandross kicked off his musical journey as a backup vocalist for artists like Roberta Flack, Chaka Khan, Bette Midler, and David Bowie. His career soared with the release of his double-platinum debut album, “Never Too Much,” in 1981, which has sold over 40 million copies globally. Many of his albums received platinum or double platinum certifications, and he had five Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, such as “Here and Now,” “Endless Love,” and “Power of Love/Love Power.” On the R&B chart, he amassed 27 Top 10 hits, with seven reaching No.1, and received a total of 33 Grammy nominations.

The movie delves into the multifaceted career of the R&B legend, along with his struggles with his sexuality and overeating. In this movie, some of Vandross’ ex-bandmates and collaborators share insights about his personal life and enduring legacy. Notable contributors to the film include Marcus Miller, Mariah Carey, Nile Rodgers, Clive Davis, Valerie Simpson, Richard Marx, and Jamie Foxx, who not only provided commentary but also produced the documentary.

“The entire team at Giant Pictures has taken a liking to the film ‘Luther: Never Too Much’, which received rave reviews during its successful run at film festivals this year. This movie is a hit with audiences and a must-watch, not just for die-hard Luther Vandross fans, but also for those who are being introduced to his exceptional talent for the first time.” Nick Savva, manager of Giant Pictures, expressed in a statement. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Sony Music, Raindog Films, and CNN Films for this nationwide cinema release.”

As I, a dedicated fan, eagerly anticipate the 20-year anniversary since the loss of the legendary Luther Vandross, I’m overjoyed about the upcoming theatrical and CNN releases of “Luther: Never Too Much.” For the past fifteen years, it has been our mission at The Luther Vandross Estate to share with the world the captivating journey of this musical genius. Dawn Porter and her team have crafted a film that beautifully pays tribute to the man and his extraordinary talents.

The deal was negotiated by Savva on behalf of Giant Pictures with Sony Music Vision. 

Under the leadership of Dawn Porter, the documentary titled “Luther: Never Too Much” is a production by Trish D Chetty and Ged Doherty from Raindog Films, Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner from Foxxhole Productions, and Leah Smith from Trilogy Films. Additionally, Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman from Sony Pictures Television Nonfiction, Tom Mackay and Richard Story from Sony Music Entertainment, Jon Platt and Brian Monaco from Sony Music Publishing, Colin Firth from Raindog Films, Phil Thornton on behalf of Foxxhole Productions, Carmen Romano, Brenda Shields, Fonzi Thornton, Seveda Williams, and David Gottlieb for The Luther Vandross Estate, Lawrence Mestel and Natalia Nastaskin for Primary Wave Music are the executive producers. Sony Music Vision is handling distribution, while CNN Films and OWN hold television and streaming rights in the U.S. and Canada.

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2024-08-06 15:26