Sadly, Amy Schumer has just pulled out of the title role of Sony’s live-action Barbie film due to “scheduling conflicts.” The Jewish comedian originally announced the news as the film’s star last December, also revealing that he and her sister, Kim Caramele, would also be doing a partial rewrite of the script.
Schumer told Variety in a statement this past Thursday that this is no longer the case, however, stating:
“Sadly, I’m no longer able to commit to Barbie due to scheduling conflicts. The film has so much promise, and Sony and Mattel have been great partners. I’m bummed, but look forward to seeing Barbie on the big screen.”
It’s definitely a disappointment to fans, as this would have been the first live-action Barbie film, and who better to play Barbie than Schumer, a comedian and actress who breaks down gender stereotypes and stands up for women’s rights? In particular, Schumer stands up for body positivity–and encourages women to feel comfortable in their bodies no matter what their size, as a way to fight against Hollywood’s impossible standards.
The film focuses on Barbie, who realizes she doesn’t fit into the glittery Barbie world that she had grown up in. After being exiled from her homeland, Barbie goes on a journey of self-discovery, and has to figure out where her place is in the real world.
As of now, no director is attached, although the film is set to be released in June 2018, so the production team has to work fast to make this movie happen, especially since merchandise has already been in the works. A Sony spokesperson said in a statement that they “respect and support Amy’s decision. We look forward to bringing Barbie to the world and sharing updates on casting and film-makers soon.”
As of now, Schumer has three films in the works: an untitled comedy from 50/50 director Jonathan Levine, Jason Hall’s “Thank You for Your Service,” and a film she has co-scripted with Jennifer Lawrence in which they’ll both star.
Hopefully, the film finds a new lead actress who also feminist-leaning–because we need to empower our girls with positive female role models.
