5 Years Later, Tom Holland’s Fred Astaire Biopic Officially Confirms Its Adele Astaire and Ginger Rogers

Tom Holland, who began his early career as a dancer, was confirmed to play Fred Astaire in 2021. After almost five years, we now have a major update, as two A-listers have joined the cast. According to Deadline, Margaret Qualley and Sabrina Carpenter have joined Holland in the untitled Fred Astaire biopic. Qualley, who has earned praise for her performances in One Upon a Time in.. Hollywood, The Substance, and Poor Things, will star as Adele Astaire in the film. Carpenter is set to play Ginger Rogers.

The movie is based on Kathleen Riley’s biography The Astaires: Fred & Adele. Qualley’s casting is significant as the film isn’t going to be a simple biopic; rather, it will explore the relationship between Fred and his older sister Adele, and their early years of success as a duo. Carpenter’s casting is equally crucial, as Rogers was Astaire’s most celebrated dance partner and will play a significant role in the movie.

Tom Holland announced the role himself back in 2021. The movie has been in the works for the last five years and is now likely to begin production in January 2027.

Why Fred Astaire’s Widow Was Against Tom Holland-led Biopic

Tom Holland in Spider-Man: Brand New Day | Credit: Sony Pictures Releasing

According to a legal letter obtained by TMZ, Robyn Astaire, Fred’s widow, opposed the biopic in the making. She argued that the legendary star was explicitly against having his life portrayed on screen. She also said that Astaire’s estate did not authorize the film and wanted to pursue legal action if the makers proceeded without authorization. However, a production source told the outlet at that time that the movie is based on Kathleen Riley’s The Astaires: Fred & Adele, for which Sony currently owns the rights.

When Is Tom Holland’s Fred Astaire Biopic Releasing

Margaret Qualley in The Substance | Credit: MUBI

There is no official release window yet. Holland hopes that the production will begin in January 2027. The movie, which does not have an official name yet, will be helmed by Paul King, known for Wonka (2023) and the Paddington franchise.

Amy Pascal and Rachel O’Connor have joined the producers’ group. While Robyn Astaire has previously objected to the project, Fred Astaire’s daughter, Ava Astaire McKenzie, has lent her support. “I’m delighted to support this endeavor to celebrate the extraordinary careers and enduring legacy of my father and aunt, who were among the biggest musical stars of their era,” she said (via Deadline). Her son, Tyler McKenzie, is also a co-producer and consultant for the upcoming biopic. Steven Levenson has co-written the script with King.

Do you think the casting is on point? Let us know in the comments.