Austin Butler Cast as Lance Armstrong in Edward Berger’s New Film

Austin Butler will portray Lance Armstrong in an upcoming film directed by Edward Berger. The spec script is being written by Zach Baylin, known for his work on “King Richard.” Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbit are producing the project alongside Berger, while Josh Glick and Zac Frognowski serve as executive producers.

A Bidding Frenzy for Armstrong’s Story

This film package has ignited a competitive bidding war among major studios. Sources indicate that Stuber has been negotiating for Lance Armstrong’s life rights for a considerable time. This work predates his new deal with United Artists, which is why the film is being marketed rather than going to Amazon MGM Studios first.

The Armstrong story has historically fascinated Hollywood. It features significant elements, including Armstrong’s battle with cancer and his unprecedented seven consecutive Tour de France victories. However, the narrative took a dramatic turn as Armstrong later confessed to blood doping, leading to his fall from grace.

Previous Portrayals and Comparisons

This isn’t the first cinematic treatment of Armstrong’s life. In 2015, Ben Foster portrayed him in “The Program,” a film that Armstrong did not participate in. The new film aims to blend themes from “F1 The Movie,” Martin Scorsese’s “Raging Bull,” and “The Wolf of Wall Street.” It will encapsulate both the triumphs and tribulations of Armstrong’s journey.

Armstrong’s Involvement

For the first time, Armstrong has agreed to endorse the use of his life rights in this film. His relationship with Stuber facilitated this decision. Stuber emphasized the need for a truthful retelling of the story, which led to Armstrong’s eventual consent. Although he will be involved in the project, Armstrong will not have a producing credit.

Director and Writer Insights

Baylin is actively communicating with Armstrong and his acquaintances, ensuring a comprehensive portrayal of his life. Stuber has a history of producing films about prominent personalities, including “Bruce Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.” Butler gained acclaim for his Oscar-nominated performance as Elvis Presley, further elevating interest in the Armstrong film.

Upcoming Projects

This project adds to Butler and Berger’s growing collaboration, which includes the 2024 time-travel film “The Barrier.” Stuber is busy with numerous upcoming films including “Lizard Music” featuring Dwayne Johnson and Benny Safdie, a film adaptation of “The Tenant,” and a new version of the cult classic “Highlander” starring Henry Cavill.

Representation

• Austin Butler: WME, Brillstein Entertainment Partners, Sloane Offfer Weber Dern
• Edward Berger: CAA, Range Media Partners, Jackoway Austen Tyerman
• Zach Baylin: CAA, Brillstein Entertainment Partners, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole

The anticipated film detailing Lance Armstrong’s complex life promises to be a significant addition to Hollywood’s narrative repertoire, reflecting both exceptional achievements and dramatic falls from grace.