Lifetime has debuted the trailer for I Will Survive: The Gloria Gaynor Story, an original biopic chronicling the legendary disco queen’s rise, fall, and triumphant resurgence. Premiering Saturday, February 8 at 8/7c as part of Lifetime’s Voices of a Lifetime series, the film stars Tony Award winner Joaquina Kalukango (Lawmen: Bass Reeves) as Gloria Gaynor and Lance Gross (Tyler Perry’s House of Payne) as her husband, Linwood Simon.
The exclusive trailer, revealed on Good Morning America, offers a first look at Gaynor’s inspiring journey from chart-topping stardom to the personal and professional struggles that tested her resilience. Featuring her iconic anthem “I Will Survive,” alongside other classics and a brand-new original song written and performed by Gaynor, the film captures her 50-year career in the music industry.
Produced under Robin Roberts Presents and directed by Alicia K. Harris, the biopic explores the singer’s meteoric rise in the disco era, her challenging marriage, and her determination to persevere against all odds. Kalukango, known for her emotionally charged performances, said stepping into the role of Gaynor was a career highlight. “Gloria’s story is one of strength and determination, and it’s an honor to bring her journey to life.”
Gaynor, who serves as an executive producer on the film, expressed her excitement about sharing her story. “It’s an honor to share my journey with the world, and I’m thrilled to work with such an incredible team on this film,” she said.
READ: Lifetime Drops Trailer for Upcoming Biopic ‘Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story’
The Gloria Gaynor biopic is the grand finale of Lifetime’s Voices of a Lifetime series, a slate of films celebrating the legacies of music icons. The event begins with Family Affair, inspired by Mary J. Blige’s hit song, premiering saturday, january 25. The series continues on saturday, february 1, with Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story, chronicling the rise of 1980s Latin hip-hop pioneer Lisa Lisa.