Madonna discussed the studio conflict that halted her long-anticipated biopic. The singer shared insights into what went wrong with Universal Pictures and the subsequent developments.
Madonna explains why her biopic didn’t progress
Madonna disclosed that a budget disagreement with Universal Pictures led to the collapse of her biopic project.
The singer informed Interview Magazine that she dedicated two years to the script and an additional two years to budgeting and casting with the studio. She articulated the main issue clearly: “We had a falling out, me and Universal, regarding budget because I needed, I’ve had an extraordinary life. I’ve had a huge life, so I needed a big budget.”
Madonna also implied that the studio doubted her dedication to the project. She noted that Universal “couldn’t get their heads around it” even after she identified a more affordable production option in Serbia. The studio’s initial response, according to Madonna, was dismissive: “We don’t believe you’d stay in Serbia more than four days.”
The singer firmly countered that skepticism during the interview. She replied to the studio by stating, “Did you read the script? My whole life has been survival. I’m not going there for a holiday.” Madonna was set to co-write and direct the film, which had Julia Garner attached to star.
After the Universal project fell through, Netflix approached Madonna about adapting the story into a series. However, she could not utilize the script she created for Universal without repurchasing it “for an extortionist’s price.” The search for a showrunner then extended over eight or nine months without success.
Madonna redirected that creative frustration into music, reconnecting with producer Stuart Price. She began working on Confessions on a Dance Floor: Part II instead. Netflix eventually secured a writer, but Madonna was already deeply involved in the album. In 2025, she collaborated with Shawn Levy for a limited bioseries at the streamer.
Garner later confirmed that her participation in the project remained “a work in progress.”
