Luther Vandross Documentary Sparks Backlash Over Patti LaBelle’s Portrayal

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The CNN documentary Luther: Never Too Much, which aired on New Year’s Day, has been criticized by Patti LaBelle's camp. The film explores the life and legacy of the late Luther Vandross but has drawn ire for portraying LaBelle, one of his dearest friends.

According to insiders close to LaBelle, the legendary singer was framed as a “villain” in the documentary for allegedly discussing Vandross’s sexuality—a topic he was known to keep private. LaBelle, who shared a decades-long friendship with Vandross, reportedly provided extensive care and support for him and his family, especially in his final years.

The controversy stems from a 2017 clip of LaBelle discussing Vandross’s reluctance to come out publicly during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. In the clip, LaBelle mentions that Vandross was hesitant to address his sexuality publicly out of concern for his mother’s feelings.

LaBelle had initially participated in an hour-long interview for the documentary, even inviting producers into her home. However, her contributions were omitted after she declined to sign release forms when her request to review the final edit was denied.

Adding to the backlash, Vandross’s longtime collaborator, Richard Marx, is featured in the film criticizing people who publicly speculated about Vandross’s personal life, further casting LaBelle in a negative light.

Fans and some of the documentary's production team have expressed discomfort with how LaBelle was portrayed. Some producers reportedly opposed including the WWHL clip and believed she should have been allowed to review the final cut.

Despite her exclusion from the documentary’s positive narratives, LaBelle’s impact on Vandross’s life and career is undeniable. Vandross, who founded the first Patti LaBelle fan club as a teenager, often cited her as a major influence.

As of now, LaBelle, 80, has not publicly commented on the documentary and remains busy with her ongoing tour.

CNN has declined to comment on the controversy.