HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Oprah Winfrey’s life and career is being made into a movie.
The film project, led by veteran producer Larry A. Thompson, will be based on the recent biography, Oprah, written by investigative reporter and international bestselling author, Kitty Kelley.
"Oprah Winfrey’s fascinating journey from rural Mississippi to the World Stage is packed with simple truths and complicated personalities," said Thompson. "Kitty Kelley’s extensively-researched book offers us the factual foundation to frame our cinematic portrait of this powerful and beloved icon."
"Few Hollywood filmmakers are as experienced as Larry Thompson at understanding and dramatically exploring the emotional complexities of famous people," added Kelley. "That’s why I was pleased that he chose my book upon which to base his movie. Compelling biographies of great people must separate myth from fact and hype from truth."
Thompson acknowledged that casting someone to play Winfrey will be a "real challenge," but said there are plans to audition "both known and unknown actresses."
Both Thompson and Kelley have extensive experience in the biographical arena of the world’s most revered icons. In addition to Winfrey, Kelley has written bestselling biographies on Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, England’s Royal Family, Nancy Reagan, and the Bush family. Thompson has produced critically-acclaimed movies about Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and Sonny and Cher, among others.
