Queen Latifah’s Heartfelt Tribute to Her Grandmother in ‘Chicago’ – You Won’t Believe What She Shared!

Queen Latifah’s powerful performance as Matron “Mama” Morton in Chicago remains one of the standout highlights in the film that took home the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2003. But while the character exudes theatrical bravado and larger-than-life charisma, Queen Latifah recently revealed that her true inspiration for the role wasn’t found in Broadway history books or old Hollywood legends — it came from someone much closer to home: her grandmother.

In a candid conversation with Kerry Washington on the podcast Street You Grew Up On, Queen Latifah, born Dana Elaine Owens, opened up about how she approached crafting the character of Mama Morton, the corrupt but nurturing warden of Cook County Jail. Director Rob Marshall had initially suggested that she channel vaudeville star Sophie Tucker, known for her bold, sequined stage presence and bawdy humor. But Latifah admitted she wasn’t familiar with Tucker.

“Oh, I don’t know Sophie Tucker,” she told Washington. “But that sounds like my grandmother…. I’m gonna do my grandmother. I got this, okay.”

Her grandmother, as she recalled, was a woman of commanding presence and confidence, someone who exposed her to a wider world through stories and photographs — particularly pictures of herself on cruise ships, seated proudly at the captain’s table. For Queen Latifah, her grandmother represented a blend of authority, warmth, and worldly sophistication — traits she infused into her portrayal of Mama Morton.

This deeply personal connection brought an authenticity to Latifah’s performance that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Her commanding rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” became a signature moment in the film, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. While she ultimately didn’t take home the Oscar, her performance left an indelible mark on musical cinema.

Latifah’s background as a rapper, singer, and actress — combined with her lifelong love of musicals like Timbuktu!, The Wiz, and The Sound of Music — also informed her preparation for the role. Growing up, she found solace and escapism in the world of musicals, captivated by the clever writing and emotional power of Broadway tunes. This passion undoubtedly enhanced her ability to bring Matron Morton’s blend of grit and glamour to life.

Interestingly, while Rob Marshall’s original suggestion of channeling Sophie Tucker pointed toward a historical figure known for comedic flair and flamboyance, Queen Latifah’s pivot to her grandmother’s influence added a layer of warmth and relatability that likely made the performance even more memorable.

More than two decades later, Queen Latifah’s Mama Morton remains a shining example of how personal history, channeled through artistry, can elevate a performance beyond imitation into something unforgettable.

Would you like me to also suggest a sidebar like “3 Reasons Queen Latifah’s Mama Morton Still Resonates Today” to add even more depth if you’re planning to publish this piece?