Which fictional singer did Beyoncé play in the 2006 film Dreamgirls?

In the 2006 film Dreamgirls, Beyoncé played the fictional singer Deena Jones.

Dreamgirls is a musical drama adapted from the Broadway musical of the same name. Its story follows a female singing group as it moves from local performances toward mainstream success, while exploring ambition, business control, friendship, and the cost of fame.

Deena Jones is the group’s initially shy lead singer who becomes the polished frontwoman of the Dreams. The character is fictional, although the story and characters have often been discussed alongside the history of Motown and groups such as the Supremes.

Beyoncé starred opposite Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, and Anika Noni Rose. Jennifer Hudson played Effie White and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. That casting distinction is a frequent source of confusion: Beyoncé played Deena, not Effie.