In a recent interview, Julia Garner provided an ambiguous update on her much-anticipated portrayal of Madonna in a biopic that has been mired in uncertainty. The Oscar-winning actress, known for her roles in “Ozark” and “Inventing Anna,” discussed the project’s status during her appearance on CBS Sunday Morning, which aired on November 8.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Julia-Garner-Madonna-110926-f146f14642eb4a44baae03ccebfaac78.jpg)
Garner candidly stated, “I don’t know,” when questioned about the film’s future. She went on to share that the situation regarding the biopic fluctuates frequently, saying, “Every hour it changes, in a way.” This reflection captures both the anticipation surrounding the project and the frustration of its stalled progress.
Initially announced in 2020, Garner was cast to play the iconic pop star two years later, with plans for the film to be directed by Madonna herself. The script was reportedly in the hands of renowned writers Diablo Cody and Erin Cressida Wilson. However, in 2023, Universal Pictures pulled the plug on the biopic, leaving it without a clear path forward.
Despite the challenges, Garner expressed her hope for the project, stating, “I would love for the movie to get made, obviously.” However, she also maintained a sense of acceptance regarding the situation, noting, “It’s not up to me.” In a heartwarming sentiment, she added, “But I also feel whatever happens, like, I made a great friend,” referring to her relationship with Madonna.
The actress took the opportunity to praise Madonna, saying, “I love Madonna. I think she’s incredible.” Their collaboration has seen them perform together on stage during Madonna’s recent Celebration Tour, and Garner also appeared in the companion short film “Confessions II – The Film.” In discussing her experiences, Garner acknowledged the work ethic she learned from the pop icon, stating, “She works. She taught me properly how to work.”
Reflecting on her audition process for the role, Garner revealed that it was intense and required her to immerse herself fully in the character of Madonna. She was required to sing, dance, and act as Madonna, despite not being a trained dancer. Humourously, she recalled the challenge, highlighting her dedication by stating, “That’s what I mean by work.” When prompted about surprising herself during the audition, she responded affirmatively, “Yeah, but I always try to.”
Garner’s admiration for Madonna extends beyond mere friendship, as she has actively celebrated the pop star’s legacy. In September, she participated in a tribute to Madonna during the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, donning a cone bra that paid homage to Madonna’s iconic look from her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour. Garner was joined by fellow performers, including Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX, further cementing her connection to the music legend.
Looking forward, Garner remains focused on her career, with her new Netflix series “The Altruists” set to premiere on November 19. As the biopic’s future remains uncertain, Garner’s enthusiasm for the role and her admiration for Madonna remain evident.
The saga of the Madonna biopic serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in film production, particularly when it centres around a figure as significant as the Queen of Pop. As fans await further news, Garland’s journey and experiences highlight not only her dedication to the role but also the enduring influence of Madonna in the entertainment world.
About the Author
