NEW YORK – (May 15, 2024) – CNN announced today at the Warner Bros. Discovery upfront presentation that CNN Films, in partnership with OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, has acquired the documentary feature Luther: Never Too Much. From award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter (CNN Films John Lewis: Good Trouble), 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. Produced by Raindog Films and Foxxhole Productions for Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing, in association with Trilogy Films, the film will premiere in 2025 on CNN, OWN and Max.
Luther: Never Too Much chronicles the story of a vocal virtuoso. Using a wealth of rarely seen archives, Vandross tells his own story with assistance from his closest friends and musical collaborators including Mariah Carey, Dionne Warwick, Valerie Simpson and Roberta Flack. The film relives the many stunning moments of Vandross’ Grammy® award-winning musical career, while exploring his personal life, health struggles, and a lifelong battle to earn the respect his music deserved.
“I’m thrilled to partner again with CNN Films and OWN to bring this film to audiences,” said director Dawn 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,” said Amy Entelis, executive vice president of talent, CNN Originals, and creative development. “It is an honor to reteam with her along with our partners at OWN to celebrate Luther’s enduring legacy and his iconic songbook.”
CNN Films and OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network have acquired television and SVOD rights for the US and Canada.
Directed and executive produced by Dawn Porter, Luther: Never Too Much is produced by Trish D Chetty and Ged Doherty for Raindog Films; Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner for Foxxhole Productions; and Leah Smith for Trilogy Films. Executive producers are Colin Firth for Raindog Films; Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman for Sony Pictures Television Nonfiction; Tom Mackay and Richard Story for Sony Music Entertainment; and Jon Platt and Brian Monaco for Sony Music Publishing. Phil Thornton also serves as an executive producer. Sony Music Vision is the distributor.
Luther: Never Too Much premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in January to a standing ovation and glowing reviews.
