Who played Deena Jones in the 2006 film Dreamgirls?

Beyoncé played Deena Jones in the 2006 film Dreamgirls.

Dreamgirls is a musical drama directed by Bill Condon and adapted from the stage musical of the same name. Its story follows a fictional female singing group as it navigates ambition, changing musical tastes and the pressures of the entertainment industry.

Beyoncé’s character, Deena Jones, becomes the group’s lead singer after manager Curtis Taylor Jr. reshapes the act. The role drew comparisons to the rise of Diana Ross and the Supremes, although Dreamgirls is not a literal biography of that group.

Jennifer Hudson played Effie White, the character whose professional and personal struggles drive much of the story. Hudson won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, while Beyoncé’s performance helped expand her screen career beyond music videos and concert films.