Zurich, Switzerland – The world mourns the loss of Tina Turner, the iconic American singer and performer, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 83. Turner, known as the “Queen of Rock and Roll,” captivated audiences with her powerful voice and electrifying stage presence. Beyond her musical career, Turner dabbled in the world of acting, and it has now been revealed that she once prepared to take on the role of Goddess Shakti in a film by renowned production company Merchant Ivory.
The film, titled “The Goddess,” was set to explore supernatural elements and revolve around the enigmatic figure of Shakti, a goddess with the ability to manipulate time. Turner, intrigued by the project, eagerly embraced the opportunity to portray such a compelling character. In an interview with Eastern Eye, she expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I was told about a year ago that Merchant Ivory were doing a film which had something to do with legends and goddesses, I said, yes, yes. Everyone expects Tina Turner to come back with a new album, but I will give them this movie.”
To immerse herself fully in the role of Goddess Shakti, Turner embarked on a pilgrimage to India, seeking inspiration from the country’s rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. During her visit, she explored various locations, including the spiritual city of Varanasi and the revered temples in South India. Turner’s experiences in India deeply resonated with her, as she remarked to Madhu Jain, “But the more I saw here, the more I realized that there was something I could relate to. Take away all the cars and the bikes, take it all away and you are very close to a time in my own life.”
Merchant Ivory, the production company behind the film, expressed their admiration for Turner’s talent and spirit. They believed that her unparalleled energy and natural presence made her the ideal choice for the lead role. They stated, “The film has such energy that only Tina could have played the lead role. I think she is natural; the greatest gift we have received in the world of music and dance. In real life, too, she’s a Goddess.”
Unfortunately, fate intervened, and “The Goddess” was never realized as a film. The untimely death of Ismail Merchant, one half of the renowned Merchant Ivory duo, following a surgery, shattered the project’s prospects. Despite occasional rumors of revival over the years, the film’s production remained unfulfilled.
Turner’s influence extended far beyond her music and acting career. She was an empowering figure for generations of artists and fans alike. Her dynamic performances, including her memorable role as Aunty Entity in “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,” showcased her versatility as an entertainer.
Angela Bassett, who portrayed Turner in the acclaimed biopic “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” expressed her gratitude for being able to bring Turner’s story to the screen. In a statement, Bassett said, “She gave us her whole self. Tina Turner is a gift that will always be ‘simply the best.'”
As the world pays tribute to the remarkable talent and indomitable spirit of Tina Turner, her legacy will endure through her timeless music and the impact she made on the entertainment industry. Though her portrayal of Goddess Shakti may remain unfulfilled, Turner’s journey to India and her brief connection with the divine will be remembered as a testament to her dedication to her craft and her desire to explore new artistic horizons.
