Nearly three decades after John Travolta raised our temperatures with films like Saturday Night Fever and Grease, the hunky star is trading in his gel for a big bottle of hairspray.
This morning, the WB 11 Morning News confirmed that John Travolta has signed on to play Edna Turnblad in the film re-make of John Water’s cult classic, Hairspray. We know he has the signing voice and acting chops to play the role, but he has two very big dresses to fill…literally. The role was first made famous by Devine back in ‘88, and later by Harvey Fierstein when he starred in the Broadway version, a role which landed him his forth Tony Award, this time for best actor in a musical [in 2003].
This could be a very wise move for Travolta who hasn’t had a big hit in several years, and tends to get more press for his Scientology convictions. But, if we’ve learned anything from the films of 2005, playing gay or dressing in drag goes a long way come award season.
If that’s not enough to draw you to the film, Queen Latifah will also reportedly star as the civil rights activist and dance show host, Motormouth Maybelle. The film will go into production this summer and should be in theatres in time for the 2007 summer season.
As for Grease 3, production plans have been halted, according to Moviehole.com. Don’t fret though, John Travolta has written a romantic comedy that could reunite him with his “summer love,” Olivia Newton-John. According to Travolta, "It's a tear-jerker. Fans will love it…there's a love theme throughout."
Posted by Lance Buckley on March 3, 2006 5:06 PM
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