Oprah's Richard Pryor role

Oprah Winfrey will star as Richard Pryor’s grandmother in Lee Daniels’ new movie.

While the 60-year-old actress confirmed her involvement in the biopic with an Instagram post on Sunday, her role in the project was unknown.

But now it has been revealed Oprah will take on the part of Richard’s grandmother, with whom he had a complicated relationship, while Mike Epps will play the titular character, according to Entertainment Tonight.

Posting a picture with Mike and director Lee on Sunday, Oprah wrote: “@theoriginalbigdaddy, @eppsie, and me just finished a great 1st read session. #RichardPryorMovie.”

The film will mark the third time Oprah and Lee have worked together. She won a BAFTA nomination for her role in his movie The Butler last year, and also co-executive produced Precious back in 2009.

While the role of Richard was one of the most sought-after in Hollywood, Mike beat stars including Nick Cannon and Marlon Wayans to bring the comedian to life on the big screen.

Meanwhile, the actress who will play the part of Richard’s widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor, is also yet to be confirmed – although Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson are among the names being tossed around for the role.

Jennifer is producing the film, and Mike posted a picture of himself jokingly lavishing attention on her on his Twitter page.

“Had to kiss the ring of @jennferLpryor for the blessing !you got to be strong to have been with the king! (sic)” he captioned a shot of himself kissing Jennifer’s hand.