Julia Garner confirms progress on Madonna biopic with singer co-writing the screenplay

Garner previously described the audition process, explaining that she had to dance and sing directly for Madonna.

Julia Garner has confirmed she is set to portray Madonna in a forthcoming biopic, which remains in development with the singer co-writing the screenplay.

Speaking in a video interview with W Magazine on 3 September, Garner said: “I can't say too much about it, but yes, it's a work in progress.” Although details on the plot, cast and release date have not been disclosed, the Ozark star revealed she has immersed herself in Madonna’s catalogue.

“Oh my god, I have so many,” she said when asked about favourite songs. “I love ‘Borderline,’ that's probably my favourite. I also love ‘Papa Don't Preach.’ I love ‘Burning Up.’ I love ‘Confessions on the Dance Floor’—I grew up with that album. Obviously, ‘Vogue’ and ‘Ray of Light.’” Garner noted that “Papa Don’t Preach” stands out because of the emotions in Madonna’s voice.

The Inventing Anna actress previously described the demanding audition process, explaining on the Smartless podcast in July that she had to dance and sing directly for Madonna. “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!” Garner recalled.

Reflecting on her approach, she added: “I was kind of like, ‘You can take it or leave it, but if you leave it, if I leave, then that’s on you.’”

Madonna herself has kept fans updated, sharing photos in 2024 of her writing sessions, captioned: “I Need A-lot of Bandz to make this………..OKAY (Story of my life).”