Tom Holland shares Fred Astaire biopic update, says he can't 'get away with being teenager anymore'
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Tom Holland has another major project lined up. With a packed schedule that includes back-to-back films, the 'Spider-Man 4' star has now shared a long-awaited update on his upcoming Fred Astaire biopic.
The 30-year-old actor revealed that he is heading back to the dance studio to prepare for portraying the legendary entertainer. At the same time, Holland admitted that he is ready to leave his teenage roles behind and embrace more mature characters.
“I now feel like I’m starting this chapter where I can’t quite get away with being a teenager anymore,” the actor, 30, said.
Tom Holland shares long-awaited update on Fred Astaire biopic
The Fred Astaire biopic has been in development for several years, and during an appearance on 'Good Morning America' on July 20, Holland confirmed that the long-awaited project is finally gaining momentum.
He explained that the film represents a new chapter in his career, adding that he no longer sees himself playing teenage characters. “For me, what I love about my job is the challenges. We have Fred Astaire next, which is what we’re planning on doing."
"And as soon as I finish with these tours, I’m diving back into the dance studio,” he added. Holland also spoke about the "challenging" preparation required to do justice to the Hollywood icon, admitting that the role has already pushed him out of his comfort zone.
“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 told GMA.
The actor also revealed that he hopes to perform all of the film's dance sequences himself rather than relying on stunt performers. “I have a desire to use no doubles, to do all of the dancing, to shoot those dances in one shot - how he would have done it,” he said.
Tom Holland talks about when he got the role of Fred Astaire
Holland's Fred Astaire biopic has been a long-standing project ever since it was announced in 2021. Directed by Paul King and written by Steven Levenson, the film will see the actor step into the shoes of the iconic entertainer.
Speaking to the Associated Press at the time, Holland revealed he had only recently received the script and had not yet had a chance to read it. “The script came in a week ago,” he said. “I haven’t read it yet; they haven’t given it to me.”
He also shared the memorable way he found out he had landed the role, recalling a FaceTime call from producer Amy Pascal.
“She FaceTimed me earlier. I was in the bath,” Holland said. “And we had a lovely FaceTime, but I will be playing Fred Astaire.” Holland’s latest update comes as he and Zendaya continue promoting 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day', which is set to hit theaters on July 31.
