Kristen Wiig is set to star and produce The Husbands, an adaptation of the upcoming novel by bestselling author Chandler Baker who will make her feature screenwriting debut. The story “follows an overworked mother who, while house-hunting in a nice suburban neighborhood, meets a group of high-powered women with enviably supportive husbands. When she agrees to take on a legal case involving the untimely death of one resident’s husband, she risks exposing not only the secrets at the heart of her own marriage, but the true secret to having it all, one worth killing for.” Wiig was last seen in Barb & Star Go To Vista del Mar, and is currently writing a Cinderella Evil Stepsisters film with co-star Annie Mumolo. She’s also set to star in a MacGruber 2 series for Peacock. [Deadline]
Gina Rodriguez is making her first move behind the camera, as she’ll direct, star, produce and co-write an untitled boxing drama. The film is based on star Ryan Garcia’s experiences as a Mexican-American boxer, but will center on fictional character Alex Guerrero (Garcia), whose struggles with mental health rival his toughest bouts in the ring. After a chance encounter with a World Champion propels him into the spotlight, he must prove to himself and the world that he has what it takes to come out on top. Playwright Bernardo Cubria is co-writing the screenplay. Rodriguez has been keeping busy with lately, appearing in the films Awake, Someone Great, Kajillionaire, and voicing Velma in the animated SCOOB!. [Deadline]
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood breakout Julia Butters has joined Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film loosely based on his childhood in Arizona. Butters will play a character inspired by the director’s sister, with Gabriel LaBelle as the young filmmaker, Michelle Williams as his mother, Paul Dano his father, and Seth Rogen his favorite uncle. Spielberg will direct and co-write the script with Tony Kushner. Coming up for Butters is a role in Netflix’s star-studded The Gray Man alongside Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas. [Deadline]
