Respect

In 1952, 10-year-old Aretha Franklin lives in Detroit with her family, including her father, C.L., a prominent pastor. The family frequently hosts gatherings, navigating their personal struggles, notably C.L.'s divorce from Barbara.

Aretha experiences a devastating loss with her mother's passing, compounded by a traumatic event involving an adult family friend. This trauma leaves her mute for weeks, only to be coaxed into singing by her father before the church congregation.

Seven years later, Aretha is now a teenage mother of two, navigating the complexities of early motherhood. She joins her father in supporting Martin Luther King and the civil rights movement through music.

At a family gathering, she meets Ted White, a local producer, sparking an immediate connection. However, her father, C.L., quickly intervenes, signaling Ted to maintain distance from their family.

C.L. surprises Aretha with a meeting with John Hammond from Columbia Records, resulting in a record contract. This opportunity catapults Aretha into the jazz music scene, leading to the release of several albums.

Despite releasing four albums, Aretha struggles to find her signature hit, fueling frustration. During a tribute to Dinah Washington, she receives harsh feedback from Dinah, prompting Aretha to reflect on her musical direction.

As her romantic relationship with Ted deepens, Aretha starts to skip recording sessions, disappointing her father. In a bid for independence, she introduces Ted to her family despite their disapproval.

In 1966, after marrying Ted and having a child, Aretha faces the harsh reality of being dropped by Columbia Records due to her lack of hits. Ted manages to secure a contract with Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Records, providing her with a fresh chance.

With the help of talented musicians in Muscle Shoals, Aretha begins working on 'I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)'. However, a violent altercation with Ted disrupts the recording session, highlighting the turmoil in their relationship.

After returning to Detroit, Aretha finally hears her song on the radio, reigniting her passion for music. With the help of her sister Carolyn, she reinvents Otis Redding's 'Respect', which climbs to the top of the charts in 1968.

Dr. Martin Luther King acknowledges Aretha's contributions to the civil rights movement, declaring February 16 as Aretha Franklin Day in Detroit. This honor reflects her significant role in both music and activism.

As Aretha's fame grows with hits like '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman', the pressures mount in her personal life. Tensions rise with Ted, who attempts to control her engagements, resulting in conflicts between them.

After separating from Ted, Aretha finds comfort with her tour manager, Ken Cunningham. However, a serious conversation with her father about Dr. King's assassination reveals a rift in their relationship, questioning her commitment to the movement.

Aretha battles burnout and substance reliance, leading to an intervention from her siblings that she dismisses. A fall during a performance prompts a pivotal spiritual experience that inspires her to confront her demons and seek sobriety.

Determined to return to her gospel roots, Aretha collaborates with Jerry to produce a gospel album. On the recording day, C.L. reconciles with Aretha, leading her to deliver a powerful performance of 'Amazing Grace', culminating in a historic live album.