By Jake Coyle, Film Writer
NEW YORK (AP) --A biopic about Madonna has found a uniquely qualified director: Madonna, herself.
Universal Pictures announced Tuesday that the studio is developing an untitled film about the pop star that Madonna will direct and co-write with "Juno" scribe Diablo Cody. Madonna said she wants the film to convey "the incredible journey that life has taken me on as an artist, a musician, a dancer – a human being, trying to make her way in this world."
"The focus of this film will always be music," said Madonna in a statement. "Music has kept me going and art has kept me alive. There are so many untold and inspiring stories and who better to tell it than me. It's essential to share the roller coaster ride of my life with my voice and vision."
The film will be produced by Amy Pascal, the former Sony Pictures chief who produced "A League of their Own," the 1992 film co-starring Madonna.
"This movie is an absolute labor of love for me," said Pascal. "I have known Madonna since we made 'A League of Their Own' together, and I can't imagine anything more thrilling than collaborating with her and Diablo on bringing her true-life story to the big screen with Donna (Langley) and our partners at Universal."
Madonna, 62, previously directed the 2008 British drama "Filth and Wisdom" and the 2011 period drama "W.E.," with Abbie Corning and Andrea Riseborough. Madonna, whose last album was 2019's "Madame X," has sold 335 million records worldwide in her career.
Jean Smart, Ariana Grande, Michael Keaton among hosts for “SNL” season 50
Fresh off her Emmys win, Jean Smart will kick off the landmark 50th season of "Saturday Night Live."
NBC on Thursday announced the lineup of hosts for the season, which premieres Sept. 28. Joining Smart on the first show will be Jelly Roll as the musical act. He was also at the Emmys, singing during the ceremony's in memoriam segment.
It will be Smart's first time hosting "SNL."
Comedian Nate Bargatze will host on Oct. 5, with Coldplay as the musical guest.
Ariana Grande will host Oct. 12, with musical guest Stevie Nicks.
"Beetlejuice" star Michael Keaton will host on Oct. 19, the last show before Halloween, and Billie Eilish will be that night's musical guest.
The host on Nov. 2 will be "SNL" alum John Mulaney, with breakout sensation Chappell Roan as the music guest.
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