Julia Garner’s first official confirmation about the Madonna biopic signals the project’s return from development limbo. Speaking to W Magazine, the Emmy winner delivered a definitive “Yeah!” when asked if she would “for sure” star as the Material Girl, adding that “it’s a work in progress.” This marks the first clear on-record statement since the production paused in 2023, offering reassurance to fans who’ve watched this project navigate more plot twists than a Madonna music video.
From Tour Bus Back to Screenplay
Madonna’s Celebration Tour forced a creative detour, but the biopic machinery is grinding back to life.
The pause wasn’t creative differences or studio politics—Madonna needed to focus on her global Celebration Tour. Now she’s back to co-writing and directing duties alongside screenwriters Diablo Cody and Erin Cressida Wilson. Universal Pictures remains attached, though no release date exists. It’s the kind of strategic control most artists can only dream of wielding. The hands-on approach reflects Madonna’s perfectionist nature and determination to shape her own narrative.
Surviving the Legendary Madonna Boot Camp
Garner earned her stripes through dance floors and vocal challenges that became industry folklore.
The audition process reads like music industry legend. Multiple actresses endured what became known as “Madonna boot camp”—singing and dancing directly in front of the superstar herself. Garner, admittedly not a trained dancer, had to learn choreography on the fly. “I kind of just wanted to see if I could do it,” she explained on the SmartLess podcast, “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.” Her fearless approach, inspired by Madonna’s own attitude, ultimately landed her the career-defining role.
Deep Cuts and Emotional Connections
Garner’s musical preferences reveal the emotional core she brings to portraying pop’s most complex icon.
Beyond technical challenges, Garner demonstrates genuine musical appreciation. She cites “Borderline” and “Papa Don’t Preach” as favorites, specifically praising Madonna’s emotional vocal delivery in the latter. “There’s a lot of emotions in that song and I love that,” she shared with W Magazine. This emotional intelligence matters more than dance skills when you’re tasked with embodying someone who transformed pop culture. As music biopics continue dominating awards seasons, Garner’s confirmation keeps Madonna’s cinematic legacy on track—assuming Hollywood’s most perfectionist pop star approves the final cut.
