The Cast of Sparkle (1976) - Then and Now

Released in 1976, Sparkle is a classic musical drama film that follows the story of three sisters who form a Motown-era trio of female singers. The movie has gained a cult following over the years, and many fans are curious to know what the cast is up to now. In this article, we'll take a look at the main cast members of Sparkle and see what they're doing today.

The film tells the story of three sisters - Delores (Dorothy Dandridge), Sister (Irene Cara), and Sparkle (Lonette McKee) - who dream of becoming famous singers. The movie follows their journey as they face various challenges, including personal struggles and rivalries, while trying to achieve their showbiz dreams.

The film features several memorable performances, including Lonette McKee's powerful singing voice and Irene Cara's energetic dance moves. The movie also has a strong emotional impact, particularly in its portrayal of the sisters' relationships with each other and with their abusive manager, Satin (Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs).

One of the standout performances in Sparkle is Whitney Houston's debut as Sister Augustus, the oldest sister who sacrifices her own dreams to help her younger siblings achieve stardom. Houston's emotional performance of the gospel hymn 'His Eye Is on the Sparrow' is a highlight of the film and showcases her incredible vocal talents.

Now, let's take a look at what the cast of Sparkle is up to today:

* Lonette McKee, who played the lead role of Sparkle, has continued to work in the entertainment industry as an actress, singer, and producer. She has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including The Color Purple, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and Grey's Anatomy.

* Irene Cara, who played Sister Augustus, has also had a successful career in music and acting. She is best known for her hit single 'Flashdance... What a Feeling' from the 1983 film Flashdance. Cara has appeared in several films and television shows, including The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Law & Order: SVU.

* Dorothy Dandridge, who played Delores, was a talented singer and actress who died of breast cancer in 1969 at the age of 42. Despite her untimely death, Dandridge left behind a legacy as one of the first African American women to achieve major success in Hollywood.

Whitney Houston's performance in Sparkle is particularly memorable, and her talent was evident even in this early role. Sadly, Houston passed away in 2012 at the age of 48 due to complications from drug use. Despite her struggles with addiction, Houston remained one of the most beloved and respected singers of all time.

In conclusion, Sparkle (1976) is a classic film that has stood the test of time, and its cast continues to be celebrated for their talents. While some members of the cast have passed away, others are still active in the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and iconic music.

Sparkle 1976 cast now