What character did Aretha Franklin play in The Blues Brothers?

Aretha Franklin played Mrs. Murphy in *The Blues Brothers*.

Mrs. Murphy is the wife of Matt “Guitar” Murphy, a guitarist in the film’s band. The couple run a soul-food restaurant, where Jake and Elwood visit while rebuilding the Blues Brothers. When Matt considers joining the band, Mrs. Murphy delivers Franklin’s memorable performance of “Think,” urging him not to walk away from their business and marriage.

The role was written as both a dramatic and musical showcase for Franklin. Director John Landis and the production specifically recruited major rhythm-and-blues figures—including James Brown, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles, and Franklin—to anchor the film’s musical numbers. The restaurant scene also features the real musician Matt “Guitar” Murphy, making the character’s surname more than a coincidence.

A common mix-up is “Curtis,” the name of Cab Calloway’s character, or “Sister Mary,” a name associated with other musical and religious characters. Franklin’s character is Mrs. Murphy, while her on-screen husband is Matt Murphy.