Austin Butler to Star in Lance Armstrong Biopic Directed by Edward Berger
Austin Butler is set to portray controversial cyclist Lance Armstrong in a forthcoming biopic, directed by Edward Berger, known for his work on Conclave. The project, which has sparked a bidding war among major studios, will be penned by Zach Baylin, the Oscar-nominated screenwriter behind King Richard.
The film will delve into the life of Armstrong, who achieved unprecedented fame by winning the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times. However, his legacy was irrevocably tarnished following a United States Anti-Doping Agency investigation in 2012, which revealed a systematic doping program throughout his career. Armstrong initially denied the allegations for years before admitting to using performance-enhancing drugs in 2013.
Scott Stuber, the producer of Deliver Me From Nowhere, secured Armstrong’s life rights for the project. The biopic exists independently of Stuber’s United Artists shingle, as the deal predates the revival of the Amazon MGM-owned brand. The package – boasting talent with numerous Academy Award nominations – is currently being presented to various studio partners.
Beyond his cycling career and the subsequent scandal, the film is expected to explore Armstrong’s significant contributions to cancer research and support. Following his own diagnosis with testicular cancer, Armstrong founded the Livestrong Foundation, which has raised substantial funds for cancer awareness and patient care.
Baylin will also serve as an executive producer alongside Josh Glick and Zac Frognowski, while Berger will produce the film with Stuber and Nick Nesbit.
Butler’s upcoming roles include appearances in Michael Mann’s Heat 2, also produced by Stuber, Joseph Kosinski’s Miami Vice, and Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of American Psycho. Berger recently directed the Netflix drama The Ballad of a Small Player and is currently filming The Riders, starring Brad Pitt, for A24. Stuber is currently nominated for a Best Picture Oscar for his work on Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.
The announcement of the project comes as interest in Armstrong’s story remains high, fueled by the complexities of his achievements, his fall from grace, and his continued presence in the public consciousness. The film promises to offer a nuanced portrayal of a figure who embodies both extraordinary athletic accomplishment and profound ethical failings.
