What’s Love Got to Do with It

Last Updated on: October 18th, 2023

Here is everything you need to know about the amazing movie What’s Love Got to Do with It including casting, reviews, fun facts and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!

What’s Love Got to Do with It Description

What's Love Got to Do with It (Touchstone Movie)

“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a biographical drama film released in 1993, directed by Brian Gibson. The movie is based on the life of the legendary singer Tina Turner and her tumultuous relationship with her former husband and music partner, Ike Turner.

The story follows the rise to stardom of Anna Mae Bullock (played by Angela Bassett), a young woman from Nutbush, Tennessee, who dreams of becoming a singer. She meets Ike Turner (played by Laurence Fishburne), a talented musician, and they form a musical partnership that eventually leads to the duo’s success and fame as Ike & Tina Turner.

However, behind the glamorous facade of their success, their personal relationship becomes increasingly abusive and toxic. Ike’s violent and controlling behavior takes a toll on Anna Mae, both emotionally and physically.

As her fame grows, Anna Mae realizes the need to break free from Ike’s grip and abusive behavior. She eventually finds the strength to leave him and starts her solo career as Tina Turner.

The film chronicles Tina Turner’s journey to independence, self-discovery, and her eventual transformation into an iconic solo artist. It also sheds light on the issue of domestic abuse and the courage it takes for a victim to break free from an abusive relationship.

“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a powerful and emotionally charged film that explores themes of love, perseverance, and self-empowerment. Angela Bassett’s portrayal of Tina Turner earned widespread acclaim, and she received an Academy Award nomination for her performance.

The film’s candid and unflinching portrayal of domestic violence, as well as its celebration of Tina Turner’s resilience and talent, has made it a touchstone for viewers seeking impactful biographical dramas and stories of triumph over adversity.




What’s Love Got to Do with It Cast
  • Angela Bassett: Anna Mae Bullock / Tina Turner
  • Rae’Ven Larrymore Kelly: Young Anna Mae Bullock
  • Cora Lee Day: Grandma Georgiana
  • Khandi Alexander: Darlene
  • Laurence Fishburne: Ike Turner
  • Jenifer Lewis: Zelma Bullock, Tina’s mother
  • Phyllis Yvonne Stickney: Alline Bullock
  • Penny Johnson Jerald: Lorraine Taylor
  • Vanessa Bell Calloway: Jackie
  • Chi McBride: Fross
  • Sherman Augustus: Reggie
  • Terrence Riggins: Spider
  • Bo Kane: Dance Show Host
  • Terrence Evans: Bus Driver
  • Rob LaBelle: Phil Spector
  • James Reyne: Roger Davies
  • Richard T. Jones: Ike Turner, Jr.
  • Shavar Ross: Michael Turner
  • Damon Hines: Ronnie Turner
  • Suli McCullough: Craig Turner
  • Elijah B. Saleem: teenage Ike Turner, Jr.


What’s Love Got to Do with It Crew
  • Director: Brian Gibson
  • Producers: DOug Chapin and Barry Krost
  • Screenplay: Kate Lanier



Additional Details

  • Movie Studio:
  • Year Released: 1993
  • Type of Movie: Live Action
  • Box Office: $39.1 million
  • Awards: Nominated Academy Awards; Won Golden Globe
  • IMDB Link

What’s Love Got to Do with It Trailer:




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Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other sites include DMR and VideoGamesStats.com.