Julia Garner Offers Ambiguous Update on Stalled Madonna Biopic Project
The long-gestating film remains in limbo as production status shifts frequently for the star.
1Uncertainty Surrounds Biopic Status
Julia Garner recently addressed the status of the long-delayed Madonna biopic, admitting she remains unsure about the project's future. During a CBS interview, she noted that the situation changes almost every hour. Garner emphasized that the final decision is not within her control, despite her clear desire to see the film completed.
2Production History and Delays
First announced in 2020, the project has faced significant hurdles over the years. Universal Pictures reportedly scrapped the film in early 2023 ahead of the pop icon's world tour. While Madonna teased a return to script work in July 2024, the film's development remains indefinitely paused, leaving its ultimate realization highly questionable.
3Rigorous Casting and Selection
Garner was personally selected by Madonna for the lead role in 2022 following a demanding process. This selection involved a grueling singing-and-dancing boot camp to ensure authenticity. Other contenders for the part reportedly included Florence Pugh, Alexa Demie, Odessa Young, and Bebe Rexha, highlighting the high level of competition for the coveted role.
4Shifting Creative Development Paths
The project has seen multiple creative iterations, with Madonna originally set to direct the film herself. Scripts were penned by Diablo Cody and Erin Cressida Wilson during the development phase. Recent reports suggest a potential pivot, as Madonna has reportedly partnered with Netflix to develop her life story as a television series instead.
5Garner's Personal Connection
Despite the professional uncertainty, Garner maintains a strong personal bond with the music icon. She credits Madonna with teaching her the true meaning of hard work. Garner previously appeared in 'Confessions II — The Film' and joined the singer on stage at the 2026 VMAs, reinforcing their ongoing collaborative and personal relationship.
6Conflicting Timelines and Updates
Updates regarding the film have been inconsistent throughout 2025. In July, Garner told the 'SmartLess' podcast that the film was still supposed to happen. By September, she described the project to W Magazine as a work in progress. These varying statements reflect the volatile nature of the production's current development cycle.
7Industry Challenges for Biopics
The struggle to bring this project to screen illustrates the typical difficulties inherent in high-profile musical biopics. Balancing creative control, script development, and studio requirements often leads to extended delays. When the subject is also the director, these complexities frequently multiply, causing the project to stall indefinitely while seeking a viable path.
8Future Outlook for Project
Whether the story eventually manifests as a feature film or a Netflix series remains unclear. Garner continues to focus on other projects, such as the upcoming Netflix series 'The Altrusists.' Fans must wait for further official confirmation, as the current status of the Madonna biopic remains subject to constant, unpredictable changes.
Original article: Variety — Julia Garner Offers Ambiguous Update on Stalled Madonna Biopic Project