Aretha Franklin’s best pop culture moments: ‘Blues Brothers,’ ‘Murphy Brown,’ more

A publicist for the iconic diva confirmed she has died in Detroit, MI, surrounded by loved ones.

Fans are sharing their favorite memories of Aretha Franklin, who died of pancreatic cancer Thursday at age 76.

» RELATED: The 'Queen of Soul,' Aretha Franklin, dies at 76

From film and television shows to awards ceremonies, she contributed her talents to the entertainment industry in a variety of ways.

Here are a few of Franklin’s best-known pop culture appearances.

“The Blues Brothers”

In 1980, Franklin appeared in the comedy “Blues Brothers.” She played a diner waitress, who was tasked with teaching a few men a thing or two about respect with her energetic performance of “Think.”

Although Universal Studios reportedly wanted a newer group for the part, the flick’s star Dan Aykroyd pushed for Franklin.

“Murphy Brown”

Franklin stepped in front of the camera again ten years later for a cameo as herself in the show “Murphy Brown.” She shared a scene with Candice Bergen, and together the two sang a stripped down rendition of “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” Actually, Franklin intended for it to be a solo performance, but Bergen couldn’t help but add a few backup vocals.

» RELATED: Aretha Franklin sang for three presidents' inaugurations (including Jimmy Carter)

VH1’s 1998 “Divas Live”

In 1998, VH1 rounded up several iconic singers for “Divas Live,” a live performance series. The Queen of Soul performed “A Natural Woman” with a newer wave of songstresses, including Mariah Carey, Gloria Estefan, Celine Dion, Carole King and Shania Twain. Franklin took the last few notes, ending the classic with a bang.

1998 Grammy Awards

It’s not uncommon for the organizers of award shows to make last-minute changes to the program. That was the case at the 1998 ceremony when Luciano Pavarotti had to skip his performance due to an illness. Franklin stepped in his place − with only 20 minutes to prepare−singing “Nessun Dorma” flawlessly.

Kennedy Center Honors

During a 2015 Kennedy Center Honors event, Frankin made her way to the stage to belt out “A Natural Woman” once more. She was decked out in diamonds and a floor-length coat. However, in the middle of the tune, she ditched the drapery, tossing it on the ground to finish out the performance. Former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, Viola Davis and Kerry Washington were among the influencers in the audience.

» RELATED: Concert review: Aretha Franklin brings sass and class to Atlanta's Fox Theatre

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