Austin Butler to play disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong in biopic

Austin Butler to Tackle Lance Armstrong’s Tumultuous Life Story

Austin Butler, fresh off his critically acclaimed portrayal of Elvis Presley, is set to embody another iconic and controversial figure: Lance Armstrong. The actor will star in a new biopic directed by Edward Berger (“All Quiet on the Western Front,” “Conclave”), chronicling the rise and fall of the celebrated cyclist.

Securing the Story: Armstrong’s Life Rights

What sets this project apart from previous attempts to dramatize Armstrong’s life – such as 2015’s “The Program” – is that producer Scott Stuber has secured Armstrong’s life rights. This marks the first time Armstrong has granted access to his story for a film, and he intends to be involved in the development process. Stuber and Armstrong have a long-standing relationship, with the filmmaker insisting on a full and honest portrayal of events.

A Career Defined by Triumph and Scandal

Lance Armstrong’s story is one of remarkable athletic achievement marred by deception. He rose to prominence as a cancer survivor who dominated the world of professional cycling, winning seven consecutive Tour de France titles. His success inspired millions and led to the creation of the Livestrong Foundation.

The Unraveling of a Legend

However, years of speculation regarding doping ultimately led to investigations that revealed a systematic program of performance-enhancing drug use. Armstrong consistently denied the allegations until 2013, when he confessed to doping throughout most of his career in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. He admitted to using EPO, blood transfusions, and testosterone to fuel his victories.

As a result of his confession, Armstrong was stripped of all seven Tour de France titles, banned from the sport for life, and his legacy was irrevocably tarnished. He described his actions as “one big lie” and accepted full responsibility for his deceit.

Why Another Armstrong Biopic? The Enduring Appeal of a Fall From Grace

Armstrong’s story continues to captivate audiences, as evidenced by previous films and documentaries like “Lance” (2020), “The Program” (2015), “Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story” (2014), and “The Armstrong Lie” (2013). The enduring fascination likely stems from the dramatic arc of his life – a tale of triumph, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

The Current Landscape of Sports Biopics

The success of films like “King Richard” (which shares a screenwriter with the Armstrong biopic, Zach Baylin) demonstrates the public’s appetite for stories about sports figures overcoming adversity. However, the Armstrong story presents a unique challenge: portraying a protagonist who is both inspiring and deeply flawed. The film will need to navigate the complexities of his character and the ethical implications of his actions.

FAQ

• Will Lance Armstrong have creative control over the film? While Armstrong has granted his life rights and will be involved in the development, he will not have a producing credit.
• What will the film focus on? The film is expected to cover Armstrong’s entire life and career, including his battle with cancer, his cycling triumphs, and the doping scandal.
• Who is directing the film? Edward Berger, known for directing “All Quiet on the Western Front” and “Conclave,” will direct the biopic.

Pro Tip: Biopics often succeed when they delve into the psychological motivations of their subjects. Expect this film to explore the pressures and temptations that led Armstrong down a path of deception.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing project. What are your thoughts on Austin Butler taking on this challenging role? Share your opinions in the comments below!