It was announced today that singer and actress Selena Gomez has signed on to play legendary vocalist Linda Ronstadt in an upcoming biopic about Ronstadt’s life. The feature film is being produced by James Keach, who previously worked on the Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line, and John Boylan, Ronstadt’s longtime manager.
While additional details are scarce at this time, Ronstadt confirmed the news in posts on her official Facebook and Instagram pages, writing “It all started with a simple dream.” According to producer John Boylan’s website, Gomez and Ronstadt, who share Mexican heritage, met at Ronstadt’s home to discuss the project.
Gomez hinted at her casting on Tuesday by posting a photo of Ronstadt’s 2013 memoir, Simple Dreams, on her Instagram Story. The book shares its title with Ronstadt’s 1977 triple-platinum album.
The prolific Ronstadt enjoyed major success over decades as a recording artist, with 11 Grammy Awards and two dozen studio albums to her name. She is perhaps best known for the number one hit “You’re No Good” as well as her diverse blend of pop, rock, country, opera and Latin styles. Ronstadt was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 and celebrated for her lifetime of achievements with a 2019 Kennedy Center Honor.
At 77, Ronstadt has retired from singing after being diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative neurological disease. Meanwhile, Gomez recently starred in the Hulu series Only Murders in the Building and scored another Top 10 hit with her guest spot on Rema’s “Calm Down” remix last year. She is a two-time Grammy nominee herself.
More details on the biopic, including additional casting, a director and distribution plans, are expected to be announced soon.
