DETROIT (CelebrityAccess) Aretha Franklin’s family, knowing there will be a massive turnout to honor the legendary singer, will be holding a public viewing to take place at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, sources told TMZ.
The location was chosen to accommodate thousands; a traditional church service would be too small, sources said. Franklin was said to be a frequent visitor of the museum.
The museum was also the site of Rosa Parks’ public viewing in 2005. It was unclear if this will be open casket. Update 8/17: Family sources tell TMZ it will be an open casket. “And there will be singing. Lots of singing.”
Meanwhile, tonight on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” Ariana Grande is expected to open the show with “Natural Woman.” She was only expected to appear on a comedy skit, according to TMZ, but producers asked her to open the show with a tribute to Franklin, and Questlove convinced her.
Grande reportedly killed it and brought down the house with a standing ovation, then left the stage, breaking down in tears. She told the crowd that Franklin was one of her heroes.
UPDATE: Video below
