Biopics Stuck in Development Limbo

Several highly anticipated celebrity biopics are languishing in development hell, with some projects stalled for over a decade. Madonna's own biopic, initially announced in 2020 with Julia Garner attached to star, is currently on indefinite hiatus as the pop icon focuses on music and touring. Similarly, a Richard Pryor biopic has been in the works for over ten years, with Kenya Barris now developing it as a 10-part limited series, though Eddie Murphy is no longer involved.

Janis Joplin's biopic has been in development since the 1990s, with Shailene Woodley attached to portray the singer. Cher announced her own biopic in 2021, but the script was rejected by the singer, and a new writer has yet to be found. The Bee Gees also face a lengthy development process, with Ridley Scott having exited the project due to studio disputes.

Other stalled biopics include those for Ronnie Spector, with Zendaya still attached to star and Barry Jenkins set to direct. Taylor Swift was previously considered for a Joni Mitchell biopic, though Mitchell herself reportedly "squelched" that project. Lily Collins has been developing an Audrey Hepburn biopic for a decade, now focusing on the making of "Breakfast at Tiffany's," while Tom Holland remains attached to a Fred Astaire biopic, despite rumored contractual issues.

Finally, a biopic about trans icon Candy Darling is in development, with Hari Nef set to star and write the screenplay, aiming to tell a personal story she feels will resonate with others.