Zoe Saldana has been the center of controversy since she was cast as Nina Simone in the upcoming biopic, Nina.

Critics of the choice say there were several other actresses that would have been better because Zoe Saldana is light-skinned and has a narrower nose than Nina Simone did.

For the film, Zoe Saldana did have to wear skin-darkening makeup and a prosthetic nose.

However, as evidenced from the trailer, Zoe Saldana clearly brings everything to the part and put her heart into portraying the legendary singer and activist.

There are a couple of African-American actresses who are standing up for Zoe Saldana and they are calling for an end to the harsh judgement.

Queen Latifah said recently, “I think Zoe Saldana is a great actress, so I am looking forward to it. She is of African descent. I don’t see why she shouldn’t play the role. I just want to see it. Get rid of the hype and let’s go watch a movie.”

When it was about #GodsOfEgypt I was with y'all but @Zoe Saldana playing Nina Simone this why people don't take Twitter serious

— Knox Knox (@Knox0knocks) March 3, 2016

The #NinaSimone biopic starring #ZoeSaldana hits theaters April 2nd. Vulture.com posted an article listing a few singers/actresses who would've been a better fit for the role. What do you think?? See the full list & their explanation why on #TeaServedCold's Facebook page.

A photo posted by TeaServedCold (@gossipservedcold) on Mar 6, 2016 at 9:52am PST

Paula Patton took it a step further and expressed concern for Zoe Saldana in the midst of the backlash.

She said of Zoe Saldana, “I’m not into negativity like that. It’s a horrible thing to put on somebody…Imagine being in her shoes and enduring that. It’s not cool, and it’s not right.”

I truly believe that anyone who doesn't see the flaw in Zoë Saldana playing Nina Simone has no respect for or understanding of Nina's legacy

— Shakira (@shakiraaevans) March 8, 2016

She continued, “Clearly, someone thought she was perfect for it — she’s an amazing actress, she’s beautiful — and you haven’t even given her a chance and you haven’t seen it yet.”

She added, “I think we have to be in a place where we celebrate each other and are kind to one another, and say, ‘There’s alternate versions of a story,’ Give her a shot, try to enjoy it and stop judging.”

Zoe Saldana in dark-makeup is no way to represent Nina Simone onscreen | Frances Acquaah https://t.co/TrxRUDKtkM

— The Guardian (@guardian) March 7, 2016

Zoe Saldana is truly a talented actress and seems to give everything she’s got to honor the late Nina Simone.

What side do you fall on in the controversy surrounding Zoe Saldana?