 When the film was first suggested in the late 60s  Abbey Lincoln (qv) was the initial casting for the role of Billie  Holiday with Diana Sands (qv) as second choice. The project was  revived a few years later with Diahann Carroll (qv) as a suggested  lead but after discussions between Jay Weston (qv) and director  Sidney J. Furie (qv) the role was offered to  Diana Ross (I) (qv).