Julia Garner is stepping into some truly iconic shoes — the Queen of Pop herself, Madonna. The Emmy-winning star of “Ozark” and “Inventing Anna” has officially been tapped to play the music legend in a biopic that’s been the subject of industry buzz for years. It’s a dream role for Garner, and one she’s worked incredibly hard for.
Julia Garner From Fan To Madonna Front-Runner
Garner’s connection to Madonna runs deep. She grew up listening to her music and, like so many others, was inspired by her boldness, reinvention, and power. So when news of a Madonna biopic broke, she felt she had to go for it — not just to see if she could land the role, but to prove to herself that she deserved it.
During a recent interview on the SmartLess podcast with Will Arnett, Sean Hayes, and Jason Bateman, Garner opened up about the audition process.
“I knew they were doing a project, making a movie about it, and then I went out to audition,” she said. “I kind of just wanted to see if I could do it. Because I wasn’t a trained dancer, and I had to learn how to dance and then dance in front of her and convince her that I can dance, basically — and sing. And sing with her!”
Where Things Stand On The Project
While Garner landed the role back in 2022, the film has hit a few bumps along the way. Universal Pictures put the biopic on hold in 2023, and it’s still unclear exactly when — or if — production will resume. Madonna, who was set to direct the movie, hasn’t given up on the project. After wrapping her successful Celebration Tour, she revealed via Instagram in 2024 that she’s once again working on the script, giving fans renewed hope.
Garner also confirmed on SmartLess that it’s “supposed to still happen,” signaling that the door is very much still open.
Even as the film remains in limbo, Madonna’s story is far from stalled. Earlier this year, it was announced that she’s teaming up with producer-director Shawn Levy on a limited series at Netflix focused on her life. That project is still in its early development stages, but it shows Madonna’s ongoing commitment to telling her story — whether on the big screen or the small one.
Madonna’s impact on music, fashion, and culture is undeniable. Telling her story isn’t just about documenting a pop career — it’s about capturing the evolution of a woman who continually redefined herself and the industry. Garner’s take on the role brings a fan’s passion and an actor’s depth to the table, which could make for something truly special.
Though the biopic’s future remains uncertain, Garner’s excitement hasn’t faded. With Madonna back at work on the script and other creative doors opening, the story of the Queen of Pop still feels like it’s building toward something major.
For now, fans are watching, waiting, and hoping to see Julia Garner transform into one of the most iconic figures in music history.
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