by Carolyn Strong

We all knew Lifetime’s recent biopic of the late singer, Aaliyah, would be awful. The family did not authorize the film, nor did it allow Lifetime to use Aaliyah’s original recordings. There were also a number of casting missteps. So yes, the Wendy Williams produced “Aaliyah: Princess of R&B” was doomed from the start. When those on social media jumped in with both feet to rip apart the movie (as well as everyone associated with it), it was no surprise. However, what did surprise me was (a) the way the film depicted the “relationship” between 15-year-old Aaliyah and 27-year-old R. Kelly; and (b) the fact that the film didn’t receive more backlash for this irresponsible portrayal of their very inappropriate relationship.