New Line Cinema recently announced that they have obtained the rights to produce an upcoming biopic about the iconic comedian Chris Farley, with the film marking the directorial debut of Josh Gad. The movie will delve into Farley’s journey from his childhood in Wisconsin to his rise to fame on Saturday Night Live in New York City and his subsequent movie career before his tragic death at the age of 33 from a drug overdose in 1997. The biopic is based on Tom Farley Jr. and Tanner Colby’s book, “The Chris Farley Show: A Biography in Three Acts,” which provides an intimate look at Farley’s life and struggles, including his battle with addiction.
Josh Gad shared in an interview that the Chris Farley biopic will be a very personal project for him, as he idolized the SNL legend while growing up. The film will aim to capture the essence of Farley’s unique ability to make people laugh universally and to showcase the emotional depth of his relationships and struggles. Gad emphasized that he wants the movie to not only entertain audiences with laughter but also to evoke emotional responses, including tears. The screenplay for the biopic will be written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, drawing inspiration from various sources to ensure an authentic portrayal of Farley.
Paul Walter Hauser has been cast to play Chris Farley in the biopic, a role that he has expressed a long-standing desire to take on. Hauser, known for his roles in films such as “I, Tonya” and “Richard Jewell,” considers the project to be a passion project and an opportunity to pay homage to Farley’s life and career. Gad and Hauser both share a deep admiration for Farley’s work and see the biopic as a way to honor his legacy by portraying his struggles and impact on others. The film is expected to explore Farley’s highs and lows, showcasing his humor as well as his personal demons.
Gad is determined to capture Farley’s essence on screen by highlighting the comedian’s universal appeal and his ability to bring joy to audiences. As a first-time director, Gad recognizes the importance of staying true to Farley’s legacy and creating a film that resonates with fans and critics alike. He views the biopic as an opportunity to explore weighty themes such as confidence, inner demons, and the pursuit of laughter even in the face of personal struggles. The project holds personal significance for Gad, reflecting his own admiration for Farley and his impact on comedy.
The biopic aims to provide a comprehensive look at Chris Farley’s life, from his early years in Wisconsin to his meteoric rise in the entertainment industry and his untimely death. The film will delve into Farley’s relationships, career achievements, and battles with addiction, shedding light on the complexities of his personality and the impact he had on those around him. With Gad at the helm and Hauser in the lead role, the production team is dedicated to crafting a heartfelt and authentic portrayal of a beloved figure in comedy history. While the project is still in the early stages of production, anticipation is high for the eventual release of the Chris Farley biopic.
