Bessie poster
Where to stream

Bessie

6.420151h 47m15MovieDramaMusicTV Movie

The story of legendary blues performer, Bessie Smith, who rose to fame during the 1920s and '30s.

DirectorDee Rees
WritersDee Rees·Horton Foote
ProducersShakim Compere·Randi Michel

Where to watch

HBO Max Amazon ChannelHBO Max Amazon ChannelNow TV CinemaNow TV CinemaHBO MaxHBO Max
Availability shown for United Kingdom · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Dee Rees

QLQueen Latifah
Queen Latifah
Bessie Smith
MMo'Nique
Mo'Nique
Ma Rainey
MEMike Epps
Mike Epps
Richard
TSTika Sumpter
Tika Sumpter
Lucille
MWMichael Kenneth Williams
Michael Kenneth Williams
Jack Gee
CDCharles S. Dutton
Charles S. Dutton
William 'Pa' Rainey
BGBryan Greenberg
Bryan Greenberg
John Hammond
OPOliver Platt
Oliver Platt
Carl Van Vechten
KAKhandi Alexander
Khandi Alexander
Viola
TKTory Kittles
Tory Kittles
Clarence
KJ
Kamryn Johnson
Young Bessie
RM
Rikki McKinney
Chorus Guy

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Hot in Cleveland
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The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
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More from Mo'Nique · Co-star actress

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More from Dee Rees · Director

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Bessie — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams Bessie?

Bessie is streaming on HBO Max and Now TV Cinema in United Kingdom, and available to rent or buy on Amazon Video and Google Play Movies. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is Bessie on Netflix?

No, Bessie is not on Netflix in United Kingdom as of October 2026. It's currently on HBO Max and Now TV Cinema.

Is Bessie on Amazon Prime Video?

Bessie isn't included with a Prime Video subscription in United Kingdom, but you can rent or buy it on Amazon Video.

Where can I watch Bessie for free?

Bessie is available on HBO Max and Now TV Cinema in United Kingdom, but you'll need an active subscription — there's no free option right now.