Margaret Qualley, Sabrina Carpenter Join Tom Holland in Fred Astaire Biopic

Margaret Qualley and Sabrina Carpenter have joined Tom Holland in a Fred Astaire biopic, portraying Adele Astaire and Ginger Rogers, respectively, in the upcoming film.

Webdesk: Zunaira Fatima

Margaret Qualley and Sabrina Carpenter have joined Tom Holland in Sony Pictures’ upcoming biographical film about legendary dancer Fred Astaire, with the actresses set to portray two iconic figures from his life.

Qualley will play Adele Astaire, Fred Astaire’s elder sister and original dance partner, while Carpenter will portray Ginger Rogers, the celebrated Hollywood actress and dancer who frequently performed alongside Astaire in classic musical films.

The yet-to-be-titled biopic will be directed by Paul King, known for his work on the “Paddington” films and “Wonka.” The screenplay is being written by King and Steven Levenson, based on Kathleen Riley’s biography, The Astaires: Fred & Adele. Riley is also serving as a story and script consultant.

Tom Holland, who has been attached to the project for several years, will portray Fred Astaire. The actor has expressed his intention to perform the film’s dance sequences himself, without using dance doubles, and hopes to capture the style of Astaire’s original performances. Holland began his acting career on the London stage, playing the lead role in “Billy Elliot the Musical” from 2008 to 2010.

The film will explore the careers and partnership of Fred and Adele Astaire, who achieved considerable success on Broadway and London’s West End before Fred became one of Hollywood’s most celebrated musical performers.

Adele’s contribution to dance history is a central part of the project. Director Paul King said he was honoured to bring the story of Fred and his elder sister to the screen, noting that no surviving footage of Adele’s dancing is known to exist.

Fred Astaire’s daughter, Ava Astaire McKenzie, has expressed support for the film, describing it as an opportunity to celebrate the enduring legacy of her father and aunt for a new generation. Her son, Tyler McKenzie, is involved as a consultant and co-producer.

Amy Pascal, Rachel O’Connor, Holland, Ben Holden and Josh Hyams are among the producers associated with the project. The film’s release date has not yet been announced.