Madonna biopic resurrected: series in the works
Long put on hold, the Madonna biopic project is back in the spotlight. Brought to you by Netflix, this series promises to retrace the flamboyant and controversial life of the Queen of Pop, with Julia Garner in the lead role.
A series instead of a movie
Initially imagined as a feature film directed by Madonna herself, the biopic on the iconic singer is now taking the form of a series. A narrative choice in line with successful productions such as The Crown and Becoming Karl Lagerfeld. This change of format will enable a more in-depth exploration of forty years of career, artistic audacity and scandal.
Direction will be entrusted to Shawn Levy, a well-known name in Hollywood. He is notably behind the success of Deadpool & Wolverine, as well as producer of the mini-series A Perfect Couple with Nicole Kidman.
Madonna at the helm (or almost)
Known for her need for control, Madonna remains executive producer of the project. She had spoken out in 2023 on her social networks, asserting that only she could tell her life story, calling any other attempt “superficial and illegitimate”.
Despite this, the star has reportedly given up on directing. The screenplay, initially co-written by Diablo Cody(Juno) and Erin Cressida Wilson(Chloé), remains a question mark. The working title, Who’s That Girl, could also be changed.
Julia Garner to play Material Girl
Of the many actresses considered, Julia Garner(Ozark, Inventing Anna) is said to have landed the lead role. A choice hailed for her physical resemblance to the young Madonna, but also for her intensity on screen. Artists such as Sky Ferreira, Bebe Rexha and Florence Pugh had also been considered.
Around her, the cast promises to attract a lot of attention, with names like Julia Fox, rumored to play Debi Mazar, Madonna’s ex-best friend.
Madonna, a life made of fiction
Provocations, scandals, break-ups, reinventions… Madonna’s life is full of emblematic moments: from her famous Gaultier conical bustier to her televised kiss with Britney Spears. This biopic-series promises to be as sultry as it is inspiring a tribute to an artist who redefined the codes of pop and freedom.
Also read: Ryan Murphy’s shock series on the Kennedy-Bessettes
