Sony Pictures is narrowing down the search for the leading lady to star opposite Tom Holland in its long-anticipated Fred Astaire biopic. Monica Barbaro and Margaret Qualley are reportedly the final two candidates being considered for the role of Adele Astaire, Fred's older sister and vaudeville/Broadway dance partner.
Both Barbaro and Qualley are classically trained ballet dancers, a key qualification for the demanding roles. Chloe East was previously reported to be in consideration for the part. The film is set to star Holland, who is known for his recent box office success with "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" and "The Odyssey." Paul King, known for "Paddington," is directing the project, with Amy Pascal producing.
Holland, who made his stage debut in "Billy Elliot the Musical" from 2008 to 2010, has stated he intends to perform all his own dancing for the biopic. He has previously showcased his dance abilities in viral videos and on "Lip Sync Battle." "I did my first few rehearsals recently, and it both filled me with excitement and absolute dread because I’ve got so much work to do to try and do Fred proud," Holland said in July about preparing for the role.
Qualley studied dance at the North Carolina School of the Arts and was an apprentice with the American Ballet Theatre. She also performed at the Oscars as part of a tribute to James Bond. Barbaro holds a BFA in dance from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. Jake Myers, a producer on "Mission: Impossible – Fallout," is also joining the production as a line producer.