Will Ferrell confirms musical based on Eurovision movie comedy 'in development'
The actor and comedian, 57, is a long-time fan of the Eurovision Song Contest which saw him writing and starring in the 2020 musical romantic-comedy opposite Rachel McAdams.
Set in the small Icelandic town of Húsavík, it follows longtime friends Lars Erickssong (Ferrell) and Sigrit Ericksdóttir (McAdams), who form the band Fire Saga, with Lars dreaming of winning the Eurovision Song Contest.
When opportunity finally comes knocking, Sigrit - who has long harboured feelings for Lars - reluctantly agrees, but other distractions at the competition soon threaten to come between them.
Ferrell will now help pen the book for an upcoming stage adaptation alongside Harper Steele and Anthony King, with Alex Timbers serving as director.
The original flick included memorable songs such as Jaja Ding Dong and Lion of Love and Húsavík (My Hometown) - which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song in 2020. Music writer and producer Savan Kotecha - who worked on the film with the likes of Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, One Direction and Katy Perry - will write the music.
Speaking about his latest project, Ferrell said: 'We are more than excited to bring Eurovision to Broadway.
'The stage musical is a perfect place to continue our celebration of all the things we love about this amazing and unifying song competition.'
Timbers added: 'Will Ferrell and Harper Steele are my comedy heroes and when I first saw their joyful movie 'Eurovision' during the pandemic, it buoyed spirits during a very dark time. With this stage adaptation, I can't wait to bring that same mix of heart, spectacle, irreverence, and awe to audiences across the world.'
They even have the backing of the actual Eurovision Song Contest - which celebrates its 70th edition next year - with Martin Green CBE, the contest's director, saying: 'This is a stellar team for what I am sure will be an equally stellar adaption of a film the world loved. Our aim always is to bring the joy of the Eurovision Song Contest to more people globally - especially as we approach our 70th edition in 2026.'
The film featured a number of previous Eurovision contestants, including two-time Swedish winner Loreen and 2014 Austria winner Conchita Wurst. UK Eurovision commentator Graham Norton also made a cameo appearance.
The big question is will Jedward - who have represented Ireland twice and previously told The Standard that they turned down the chance to appear in the film - finally join the party on stage?
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