Shailene Woodley to play Janis Joplin in biopic of the iconic singer who died at 27

As a lifelong Cali girl who’s grown up with the melodious strains of Janis Joplin wafting through the airwaves, I can hardly contain my excitement about Shailene Woodley taking on the role of our beloved rockstar in her biopic! With roots deeply entrenched in the golden state herself, it’s only fitting that this project will be brought to life by some of the most gifted and passionate people California has to offer.


Actress Shailene Woodley announced on Tuesday that she’s set to play the lead role in a film about Janis Joplin’s life. Funding for this project will come from California’s Tax Credit program.

The actress from The Fault in Our Stars, who has recently given hints about her split with NFL player Aaron Rodgers, has confirmed her role in the cast as stated in a press release distributed by the California Film Commission.

Janis Joplin found a deep connection with California – from the steps of San Francisco to the soundproof rooms of Sunset Sound, this state served as the backdrop for her to delve into not only the realm of music but also the richness of her human spirit,” the actor explained.

Joplin, renowned for her strong mezzo-soprano voice and electrifying stage charisma, sadly lost her life due to an apparent heroin overdose, making her a tragic member of the notorious ’27 Club’, as she passed away at the tender age of 27.

Shailene, aged 32, eagerly expressed her anticipation for starting filming, being a native of California’s Golden State herself, and having always been a fan of the artist who made “Piece of My Heart” famous.

As a native Angeleno, who’s had the privilege of growing up among the local film community, I can’t help but feel an exhilarating sense of anticipation knowing that our project will be brought to life by some of the most talented, passionate, and dedicated individuals in the industry.

Referring to the rockstar, she commented: “I believe Janis would be grinning from ear to ear, cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway in her vibrant Porsche, a vehicle symbolic of her, knowing that her tale is opening up possibilities and resources for the city and people who meant so much to her.

We’re deeply appreciative for the California Film Commission’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program, as it allows us to film a genuine and truthful portrayal of Janis’ life in California – a place we firmly believe is the perfect setting for this project. We’re thrilled to have been given permission to proceed with our plans!

Besides acting, Woodley will also be stepping into the producer’s chair for the biopic. At this point, it’s undecided which character she will portray in the production.

The project is scheduled for completion within thirty days, with approximately $10 million being allocated for eligible expenses, as reported by Variety.

In total, the California Film Commission granted $284.4 million to nineteen distinct film projects, thereby creating job opportunities for approximately 3,800 actors and production team members.

As stated in the press announcement, the Film and Television Tax Credit Program divides the funds based on the estimated budget of each movie production.

$39.6 million was granted to three big-budget feature films and fifteen independent films.

The amount of $12 million was given as an award for a fresh television series, thanks to the Soundstage Filming Tax Credit Program.

Among the movies receiving financial support are Disney’s movie titled “Lullaby”, “Community – The Movie” from Peacock, and a currently unnamed production by Screen Gems.

The Janis Joplin biopic will receive $2.5 million from the commission. 

Earlier on Tuesday, Woodley opened up to Bustle about her ‘broken heart’ in a cryptic interview. 

In addition to her role, the actress will be sharing screen time with Betty Gilpin, DeWanda Wise, and Gabrielle Creevy in the upcoming miniseries called “Three Women.

She also recently told fans that she’d be focusing on herself and her career. 

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2024-09-11 02:43