Film fans are celebrating the casting of Lily Collins as the iconic Audrey Hepburn in an upcoming biographical drama. The project will center around the making of the beloved 1961 film, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of a cinematic classic.
Collins, known for her role as Emily in the Netflix series Emily in Paris, is set to portray Hepburn, a British actor whose influence on fashion and film remains profound decades after her death in 1993 at the age of 63. Breakfast at Tiffany’s cemented Hepburn’s status as a Hollywood legend, with her portrayal of Holly Golightly – and the film’s signature black Givenchy dress and sunglasses – becoming instantly recognizable symbols of style and sophistication. The role earned Hepburn an Oscar and Golden Globe nomination.
The announcement has been met with widespread approval, with many online praising the casting choice as particularly fitting. Collins herself shared the news on Instagram, expressing her excitement and deep admiration for Hepburn, stating it was a dream decades in the making. “It’s with almost 10 years of development and a lifetime of admiration and adoration for Audrey that I’m finally able share this,” she wrote alongside a photo of Hepburn.
Fan Reaction and Industry Support
Social media quickly lit up with positive reactions. Actors Lucy Hale and Sarah Hyland both publicly expressed their enthusiasm, with Hyland writing, “I SWEAR TO GOD. I’VE BEEN SAYING THIS SINCE THE MOMENT WE MET!!! YESSSS!!!!!!🙌🙌🙌”. Fans echoed this sentiment, describing Collins as “the only person for the role” and a “modern” Hepburn. Comments like “@colexxhearted” stating, “There is no one more perfect for this role!! Cannot wait to witness it!!” and “@its_natalie_bagby” proclaiming, “I wouldn’t accept anyone else for this role!! Congratulations! 🍾” demonstrate the strong support for the casting decision.
The film’s screenplay will be penned by Alena Smith, the creator of the Apple TV+ series Dickinson and is based on Sam Wasson’s bestselling book, Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the Dawn of the Modern Woman. Wasson will also serve as an executive producer on the project.
From Rumors to Reality: Collins Takes the Role
Collins’ casting follows previous speculation that Ariana Grande might take on the role of Hepburn. Even as Grande’s fans championed the idea, the pop star playfully dismissed the rumors during an appearance at the 2023 Met Gala, joking that questions about it were “insane,” according to Good Morning America. However, a later role for Grande remains a possibility, with some suggesting she could be the focus of a separate Hepburn biopic.
Even Collins’ father-in-law, actor Malcolm McDowell, has noted the resemblance, calling Collins “one of the best young actresses around” and observing that she possesses “that Audrey Hepburn kind of thing going,” as reported in 2024. He further praised her genuine nature, stating, “She’s really fantastic. And she’s just like that, by the way — when you meet her, she’s what you meet and what you see is what you obtain. She’s delightful.”
What’s Next for the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Project?
The upcoming film promises to offer a unique perspective on the making of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, a film that continues to captivate audiences. While the release date remains unconfirmed, the project is generating significant buzz, and fans eagerly await the opportunity to see Lily Collins embody the spirit of Audrey Hepburn. The production will undoubtedly face scrutiny, as many feel protective of Hepburn’s legacy, but the initial response suggests a hopeful anticipation for a respectful and compelling portrayal.
What are your thoughts on Lily Collins as Audrey Hepburn? Share your opinions in the comments below!
