Actress Julia Garner shared that the status of the long-delayed Madonna biopic changes 'every hour,' though she hopes the project moves forward.
Key facts
- •Julia Garner stated in an interview with CBS Sunday Morning that the Madonna biopic's status changes 'every hour.'
- •The biopic project was originally announced in 2020 and was later put on pause by Universal Pictures in January 2023.
- •Garner secured the role in 2022 after completing a singing-and-dancing boot camp.
- •Madonna was originally set to direct the feature film and co-write the script with Diablo Cody and Erin Cressida Wilson.
- •Garner has maintained a close relationship with Madonna, appearing in her film project and joining her on stage at the 2026 VMAs.
Actress Julia Garner has offered an ambiguous update on the long-delayed Madonna biopic, stating in a recent interview that its status changes constantly. Garner was personally chosen by Madonna to play her in the project, which has faced numerous stops and starts since its initial announcement.
Project Development and History
The Madonna biopic was first announced in 2020, with the pop icon set to direct and co-write a script alongside Diablo Cody and Erin Cressida Wilson. In 2022, Julia Garner landed the lead role following a rigorous casting process that included a singing-and-dancing boot camp, beating out other contenders including Florence Pugh, Alexa Demie, Odessa Young, and Bebe Rexha. In January 2023, it was reported that Universal Pictures had scrapped the film ahead of Madonna's world tour, putting it on indefinite pause. Madonna later teased working on a script again in July 2024, and reports indicated a shift toward a Netflix TV series in development with Shawn Levy.
Garner's Relationship With Madonna
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the project's production, Garner expressed strong admiration for the musician. Reflecting on their connection, Garner stated that she would love for the film to be made, but added that she had gained a great friend regardless of the outcome. Garner has previously collaborated with Madonna, appearing in Madonna's Confessions II — The Film and joining her on stage at the 2026 VMAs. She noted that working with Madonna taught her proper work ethic.
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