Anne Hathaway ‘in talks’ to replace Amy Schumer as lead in Barbie film

The Oscar-winner would be a very different choice for the twist on the Barbie story 
New role? Anne Hathaway is in talks to star in the Barbie film
Yui Mok/PA
Jennifer Ruby26 July 2017
The Weekender

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Anne Hathaway is reportedly being lined up to star in the forthcoming Barbie film, replacing Amy Schumer.

The Oscar-winning actress is thought to be ‘in talks’ with Sony Pictures to lead the new live-action film about the world’s most famous plastic woman.

Hathaway would be a very different choice to comedian Schumer, who was originally attached to the project but was forced to pull out earlier this year over ‘scheduling conflicts’.

The film, which will be helmed by Australian filmmaker Aletha Jones, is expected to be a mix of live action and animation.

Pulled out: Amy Schumer was originally signed up for the role 
Mike Windle/Getty

While most of the plot details are being kept under wraps, the drama is set to focus around Barbie’s life after she gets thrown out of ‘Barbieland’ for not fitting in.

The concept is to turn the Barbie ‘mythology’ on its head, delivering the message on its head, with an emphasis on feminism and diversity.

Schumer said she was “bummed” by the fact that she had to pull out of shooting and had been excited to step into the role of the iconic children’s doll.

“Sadly, I’m no longer able to commit to Barbie due to scheduling conflicts,” she said in a statement.

“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.”

According to Variety, film production was expected to begin in late June, which conflicted with Schumer's promotional tour for Snatched and commitments to She Came to Me.

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