Writer Liz Meriwether Has Been Listening to ‘a Lot’ of Britney Spears While Writing Singer’s Biopic

Screenwriter Liz Meriwether has shared insights into her creative journey while developing a biopic focused on pop icon Britney Spears. In a recent interview with *The Hollywood Reporter*, Meriwether detailed the personal resonance of Spears’ music, revealing how it connects with her own experiences as someone of the same age.

Meriwether, who first earned recognition as the creator of the popular television series *New Girl*, expressed her excitement about returning to feature writing after a 15-year hiatus. “It’s different and, in some ways, liberating,” she explained, noting the early stages of the writing process. The biopic is helmed by director Jon M. Chu and produced by Marc Platt, both of whom Meriwether lauded for their collaborative approach.

“I’ve had so many conversations with Jon and Marc,” she mentioned, reflecting on the supportive environment they have created. “I’m so used to being the final word on everything, but it feels really relaxing at the moment because I’m writing something and I don’t have to be the one to figure this out. I get to just be a writer, and that’s fun.”

In preparation for the project, Meriwether has immersed herself in Spears’ narrative, having read the pop star’s bestselling memoir, *The Woman in Me*, as well as listening to its audiobook version narrated by actress Michelle Williams multiple times. She praised Williams’ performance, describing it as “one of the best audiobooks that’s ever been made.” “It’s like a monologue, and her rendition broke my heart in so many ways,” Meriwether remarked, highlighting the emotional depth Williams brings to the storytelling.

Additionally, Meriwether disclosed her audible obsession with Spears’ music as she seeks to capture the essence of the era in which the singer rose to fame. “I’ve been listening to a lot of music that was happening around the time that she was making music, out of necessity. I want to just get the feeling that moment in time,” she stated, admiring how closely her own life timeline aligns with Spears’.

Having taken a more comprehensive approach to Spears’ extensive discography, Meriwether revealed her enjoyment of some of the artist’s lesser-known tracks, specifically highlighting “Perfume” and “If I’m Dancing.” “Her hits have been such big hits that I think there are a lot of songs that people don’t think of,” she noted, illustrating her eagerness to bring attention to Spears’ broader musical contributions beyond the chart-topping singles.

This upcoming biopic not only represents Meriwether’s return to feature writing but also serves as a personal journey through the lens of nostalgia for both her and Spears. At 44 years old, the screenwriter appreciates the shared experiences represented through the music and life story of the pop star.

The project has generated significant interest, especially following Universal Pictures’ announcement that it secured the rights to *The Woman in Me* after a “highly competitive auction.” Spears herself took to social media platform X to hint at her involvement, stating, “Excited to share with my fans that I’ve been working on a secret project with #MarcPlatt. He’s always made my favorite movies … stay tuned.”

As production continues to take shape, Meriwether’s passion for Spears and her music will likely play a significant role in shaping the narrative of this highly anticipated biopic. The collaborative spirit among the creative team, combined with Meriwether’s deep connection to the project, promises a fresh and heartfelt exploration of a pop culture icon whose journey resonates with many.

Fans of both Britney Spears and Liz Meriwether eagerly await further updates on this promising biographical film, which aims not only to entertain but to shed light on the complexities of Spears’ life and career. The merger of these talents could lead to a poignant and entertaining portrayal, one that reflects the true spirit of the era.