Audrey Hepburn's Son Reacts to Lily Collins Casting in Biopic
Lily Collins has expressed being "honored and ecstatic" about her upcoming role as Audrey Hepburn, but the late actress's eldest son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, has revealed his mother would likely have found the news "cringe." The 36-year-old star of Emily in Paris is set to portray the Hollywood icon in a biopic focusing on the making of the 1961 classic film Breakfast at Tiffany's.
Biopic Based on Acclaimed Book
The film will draw from Sam Wasson's book Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the Dawn of the Modern Woman, which provides the first comprehensive account of the production of one of Hepburn's most celebrated movies. In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Hepburn Ferrer, 65, shared his thoughts on the project.
"I believe that my mother might cringe at 'Dawn of the modern woman'," he said, referring to the book's subtitle. "But she cringed at any compliment." He explained that Hepburn often struggled with praise, making the concept of a film honoring her legacy potentially uncomfortable for her.
Decade-Long Development and Casting Controversy
Hepburn Ferrer noted that the biopic has been in development for nearly ten years, attributing delays largely to Collins' busy schedule with Emily in Paris. Collins announced the casting on her Instagram, writing, "It's with almost 10 years of development and a lifetime of admiration and adoration for Audrey that I’m finally able to share this."
However, the casting decision has sparked mixed reactions online. Some critics have argued that Collins lacks the depth and grace associated with Hepburn, with one social media user commenting, "Audrey was pure grace and depth; Lily Collins is pure Emily in Paris vibes." Another called it "lazy aesthetic casting over actual talent."
Family Support and Historical Accuracy
Despite the backlash, Collins has secured Hepburn Ferrer's approval. When asked about the casting, he simply stated, "Love her." Although he has not been involved in the project, he expressed trust in Wasson, Collins, and her husband, Charlie McDowell, who will produce the film alongside Collins.
"I'm happy to watch from the sidelines as long as they remain historically faithful," Hepburn Ferrer emphasized. He acknowledged uncertainty about how the historical snapshot would translate to film but remains optimistic.
Production Details and Competing Projects
The script will be written by Alena Smith, known for the Apple TV series Dickinson, though no director has been announced yet. It is also unclear who will portray key figures like Truman Capote, director Blake Edwards, or costume designer Edith Head.
This is not the only Hepburn biopic in development. Rooney Mara was previously attached to star in a project directed by Luca Guadagnino, which remains in pre-production. Hepburn Ferrer confirmed he maintains regular contact with Mara, noting her "genuine affection" for his mother.
Audrey Hepburn's Legacy and Family Involvement
Hepburn Ferrer has been actively involved in preserving his mother's legacy. He contributed to the 2020 documentary Audrey and has authored several books about her, including a children's book and a biography. In April, he will release Intimate Audrey: An Authorized Biography, co-written with Wendy Holden.
Audrey Hepburn, born to a Dutch baroness and a British-Austrian businessman, is remembered as one of Hollywood's Golden Age legends. She won an Oscar for Roman Holiday and starred in iconic films like Funny Face and My Fair Lady. Beyond acting, she was a dedicated UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992.
She passed away in 1993 from abdominal cancer, leaving behind a lasting impact on both cinema and humanitarian efforts. As the biopic moves forward, Collins' portrayal aims to capture the essence of a woman whose elegance and compassion continue to inspire generations.
