In an exciting development for music and film enthusiasts, Variety has confirmed that Selena Gomez is slated to embody the legendary Linda Ronstadt in an upcoming biopic currently in pre-production. The pop sensation and “Only Murders in the Building” star hinted at her new role by sharing a snapshot of Ronstadt’s 2013 memoir, “Simple Dreams,” on her Instagram story.
Linda Ronstadt, a trailblazer in country, rock ‘n’ roll, and Latin music, gained widespread acclaim in the 1970s with albums like “Heart Like a Wheel” and “Simple Dreams,” showcasing her remarkable versatility across genres. With 11 Grammy Awards to her name and Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the Recording Academy and the Latin Recording Academy, Ronstadt’s impact on the music industry is indelible.
What adds a compelling layer to this casting choice is the shared Mexican heritage between Linda Ronstadt and Selena Gomez. The latter, known for her Golden Globe-nominated performance in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” has seamlessly transitioned from her Disney roots in “Wizards of Waverly Place” to a successful career as a music artist with chart-topping hits such as “Lose You to Love Me” and “Love You Like a Love Song.”
The upcoming biopic, produced by Ronstadt’s manager, John Boylan, and James Keach, promises an intimate exploration of Ronstadt’s life and musical journey. Ronstadt’s 2019 documentary, “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice,” directed by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, provided a glimpse into her nearly five-decade career and her influence on the country-rock genre.
Notably, Linda Ronstadt announced her retirement in 2011, revealing later that her inability to sing was due to progressive supranuclear palsy, initially misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease. This personal struggle adds a poignant layer to the portrayal of Ronstadt’s life and legacy in the upcoming biopic.
As fans eagerly await more details about the cast and production, Selena Gomez’s portrayal of Linda Ronstadt is already generating buzz, marking a significant moment in the convergence of music and film. Stay tuned for updates on this highly anticipated project that is set to celebrate the enduring legacy of a musical icon.