Holland’s Astaire Biopic Casts Qualley and Carpenter

Key points

• Margaret Qualley and Sabrina Carpenter have joined Tom Holland in the untitled Fred Astaire biopic from Sony Pictures.
• Qualley will portray Adele Astaire, Fred’s older sister and Broadway partner, while Carpenter will play Ginger Rogers, his frequent film co-star.
• Paul King is directing the project, which is based on Kathleen Riley’s book 'The Astaires: Fred & Adele.'
• Amy Pascal and Rachel O’Connor are producing the film, with Holland also serving as a producer through his Billy17 banner.
• The project has received support from Fred Astaire’s daughter, Ava Astaire McKenzie, and her son, Tyler McKenzie, who is consulting on the movie.

Background

Tom Holland has been attached to star as Fred Astaire for approximately five years. He recently finished a major summer run with 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' and 'The Odyssey,' both of which were the highest-grossing films of 2026. Holland has stated he intends to perform all his own dancing, citing his background in 'Billy Elliot the Musical.'

How outlets are covering it

All three outlets (The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Deadline) confirm the casting news and the roles assigned to Qualley and Carpenter. Variety and Deadline provide additional context on Holland’s recent box office success and his intention to film dance scenes as one-takes without doubles. Deadline notes that the news was first reported by them, while The Hollywood Reporter and Variety emphasize the family support and the lack of surviving footage of Adele Astaire’s dancing.

Why it matters

This casting completes the primary ensemble for a major biopic that has been in development for years. It highlights the crossover of music and film stars, with Carpenter moving from music to acting, and Qualley taking on a historical role that requires significant dance skills.

What to watch

The film is expected to move into production as Holland has been rehearsing for the role. No specific release date has been announced, but the project is now fully cast in its lead roles.