Florence Pugh likely to join cast of 'Dune: Part 2'
English actor Florence Pugh, last seen in Black Widow, is reportedly in talks to join the star cast of Dune: Part 2. If the deal goes through, she will be the first newcomer to join Dune veterans like Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, and Javier Bardem, among others. To be helmed by Denis Villeneuve, the sequel will be released in October 2023, said reports.
Pugh's involvement with 'Dune' sequel facing roadblock
It seems Pugh is being considered for the role of Emperor Shaddam IV's daughter, Princess Irulan. However, if she gets roped in for the biopic of iconic singer Madonna, it would be difficult for her to jump on the Dune train. That is because the Madonna biopic is in an active development stage, while the Dune sequel is still in the scripting stage.
Here's more on Madonna biopic, 'Dune'
Alongside Pugh, the race for Madonna's biopic also has Julia Garner, Euphoria star Alexa Demie, Odessa Young (Mothering Sunday), and newcomer Emma Laird (Mayor of Kingstown), as competitors. Its auditions are still on. As far as Dune is concerned, the first part had grossed over $400 million worldwide and the 155-minute-long movie was made on a humongous budget of $165 million.
Hunt on for two more lead actors
Unlike the original film, the sequel will be an exclusive theatrical outing. Besides Pugh's role, casting for two other major parts is also on for Dune: Part 2. This includes the ruler who sends the Atreides family to Arrakis, Emperor Shaddam IV, and House Harkonnen's head Feyd-Rautha. Meanwhile, the makers of Dune's sequel are reportedly planning to commence the production this summer.
Sequel was announced last October
While hinting at a sequel last October, film production studio Legendary Pictures had written, "This is only the beginning...Thank you to those who have experienced @dunemovie so far, and those who are going in the days and weeks ahead. We're excited to continue the journey!" To note, the film is an adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel and had garnered praise from critics and viewers.
