The long-gestating Fred Astaire biopic starring Tom Holland has taken a major step forward with two high-profile casting additions. Pop megastar and actress Sabrina Carpenter alongside Margaret Qualley have officially boarded the project to tackle two pivotal roles in the upcoming feature film.
Paul King at the Helm
Set to be directed by Paul King, the man behind Wonka and Paddington, the film features a screenplay penned by Steven Levenson of Fosse/Verdon and Tick, Tick... BOOM! fame. The biographical drama is expected to center heavily on the legendary performer's relationship with his sister Adele Astaire, charting their early days as a Midwestern Vaudeville act all the way to Broadway and the West End. The narrative follows their eventual separation as Adele settled down into a quiet life while Fred's star climbed to extraordinary heights alongside a new partner.
Star-Studded Lead Trio
Qualley, a classically trained ballet dancer, has been cast to play Adele opposite Holland's Fred Astaire. Meanwhile, triple-threat talent Sabrina Carpenter has signed on to portray the iconic Ginger Rogers. The three leads bring significant physical and performance backgrounds to the table, matching Holland's own extensive stage experience in the West End production of Billy Elliot and his famously sharp acrobatic abilities.
Years in Development
Adapted from the book The Astaires: Fred & Adele by Kathleen Riley, King's project has spent roughly half a decade in development. With Holland coming off a massive commercial and critical summer—which included appearances in The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day—the addition of Qualley and Carpenter positions this passion project as one of the most anticipated upcoming cinematic events.
