Apple Original Films Acquires Lance Armstrong Biopic Starring Austin Butler

Apple Original Films has secured the rights to produce an untitled biopic about Lance Armstrong, featuring Austin Butler in the lead role. The project, directed by Edward Berger and written by Zach Baylin, emerged from a competitive auction involving several major studios. Apple ultimately won the bidding, marking a significant addition to its growing portfolio of original films.

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

Lance Armstrong is a prominent figure in sports history, known for his remarkable achievements in professional cycling, including winning the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005. His career was marred by controversy when he was found to have used performance-enhancing drugs, a fact he initially denied but later admitted in 2013. This admission led to the stripping of his titles and a significant fall from grace, making his life story a compelling subject for cinematic exploration.

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

• Austin Butler: Cast as Lance Armstrong, Butler is recognized for his recent performances and collaborations with acclaimed directors.

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

• Edward Berger: The director, known for his work on "All Quiet on the Western Front," brings a strong vision to the project.

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

• Zach Baylin: The screenwriter, celebrated for his work on "King Richard," is tasked with crafting the narrative of Armstrong's complex life.

Deadline Hollywood

• Scott Stuber: The producer and former Netflix executive, has been instrumental in securing Armstrong's life rights for the film.

Deadline Hollywood

This acquisition underscores Apple's commitment to expanding its film production capabilities, following the success of previous projects like "F1" and "Napoleon." The film aims to capture the duality of Armstrong's life, showcasing both his triumphs and his downfalls. By securing Armstrong's life rights, Apple is positioned to present a comprehensive and potentially controversial portrayal of the cyclist's journey.

Deadline Hollywood

Scott Stuber emphasized the importance of telling Armstrong's complete story, stating that after extensive discussions, Armstrong agreed to share his life rights under the condition that the film would cover all aspects of his life. This agreement marks a significant moment, as it is the first time Armstrong has authorized a film about his life.

Deadline Hollywood

While the film aims to provide a nuanced view of Armstrong's life, there are concerns regarding the portrayal of his doping scandal and its impact on the sport of cycling. Critics argue that any cinematic retelling must address the ethical implications of his actions and the broader consequences for athletes in competitive sports.

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

• “Armstrong’s story was one of the biggest in all of sports for some time.” — Deadline Report

Austin Butler’s Lance Armstrong Movie Finds Streaming Service Home

• “The new film, which combines elements of F1: The Movie and Martin Scorsese’s Raging Bull and The Wolf of Wall Street, will cover the life and career of Armstrong, capturing all the highs and lows.” — Deadline Report

Deadline Hollywood

As the film moves into production, further details regarding casting and release dates are anticipated. The project is expected to generate significant interest, not only for its subject matter but also for its high-profile team of creators and the potential for critical acclaim.

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