- Actress Shailene Woodley will portray the role of Janis Joplin in an upcoming biographical film.
Famed rock star Janis Joplin (born 1943, passed away 1970) is set to have her life depicted in a movie in California. Actress Shailene Woodley (age 32) is eager to embody the singer and produce this biopic as well. The California Film Commission is eager to fund this independent project financially.
Woodley spoke in a press statement, sharing that California held deep personal meaning for the Texas-born Joplin. It was in this West Coast state that Joplin not only flourished in the music world but also lived an energetic life. With other producers, she believed that California was the ideal backdrop to showcase a slice of Joplin's life with "honesty and truth."
Joplin, recognized for her potent blues voice and electrifying stage performances, became captivated by the hippie movement in San Francisco during the 1960s. Her breakthrough came in 1967 at the monumental Monterey Pop Festival. Hits like "Mercedes Benz," "Summertime," "Me and Bobby McGee," and "Piece of My Heart" are among her most renowned. Tragically, she passed away at 27 in 1970 from a drug overdose in a Hollywood hotel room.
Woodley, a native of California, gained recognition in 2011 for her role as a rebellious daughter in the drama "The Descendants." She went on to appear in films like "Divergent," "The Fault in Our Stars," "Snowden," "Adrift," and "Robot & Frank."
Woodley, inspired by Joplin's music and the spirit of California, often sang "♪ I'm going to be a star ♪" as a tribute to the late singer's ambition and resilience. Reflecting on the project, Woodley expressed that embodying Joplin would be a way for her to honor the singer and contribute to her lasting legacy.
