LaDainian Tomlinson, Jordin Sparks to Star in ‘God Bless the Broken Road’ Movie
Former NFL star LaDainian Tomlinson, singer Jordin Sparks and more have signed on to play roles in the upcoming movie God Bless the Broken Road, based on the Rascal Flatts hit of the same name.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, in God Bless the Broken Road, Tomlinson plays a pastor who is trying to help both a mother in distress (Lindsay Pulsipher) and a disabled veteran (Arthur Cartwright); no details about Sparks' role were revealed. THR reports that, additionally, Kim Delaney, Robin Givens and Madeline Carroll will also star in the movie.
God Bless the Broken Road will be Tomlinson's first movie role. An 11-season veteran of the NFL, he played in five Pro Bowls; holds the record for the most rushing touchdowns in a single season; and is nominated for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2017. Tomlinson currently serves as an analyst for the NFL Network.
Sparks, meanwhile, became the youngest American Idol winner ever when she was crowned Season 6's winner in 2007. She has released three studio albums and three EPs, and acted in numerous TV shows and movies, including 2012's Sparkle.
Plans for God Bless the Broken Road were first announced in May; at that time, it was revealed that the film will follow the story of a single mother whose husband is killed in Afghanistan, and will incorporate elements of “stock car racing, faith and country music.” The movie is being directed by Harold Cronk; a release date has not yet been announced.
“Bless the Broken Road,” originally recorded by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, was an incredible success when released by Rascal Flatts in 2004. Penned in 1994, “Bless the Broken Road” was co-written by Marcus Hummon and bandmate Jeff Hanna after the latter returned from his honeymoon; the Flatts credit the track with not only changing their lives but also inspiring a number of incredibly special moments at the band’s live shows — including plenty of wedding proposals.
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