Raven Goodwin as Hattie McDaniel .............
Goodwin will portray actress Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to ever win an Oscar, in the indie film, Behind the Smile, according to Deadline.
The legendary actress who won an Oscar for her role as Mammy in 1939's Gone With the Wind, wasn't even allowed to sit with her Hollywood peers during the segregated ceremony.
This is WILD! So happy to announce that I'll be portraying THE Hattie McDaniel. This is so meaningful- in so many ways! Just know I'm ready to take on the responsibility! Much love!!!- Goodwin wrote on Instagram.
She endured racism and racial segregation throughout her career. She also faced backlash from the Black community, including the NAACP, for taking on stereotypical maid or slave roles. She died in 1952 at age 57 of breast cancer.