Quinta Brunson to star as Betty Boop in feature film
A classic cartoon icon is heading back to the big screen.
In a report by Variety, a Betty Boop feature film is now in development, with Abbott Elementary star Quinta Brunson portraying the character.
Brunson is set to develop and star as Betty Boop in a film adaption through her production company, Fifth Chance Productions. They have partnered with Mark Fleischer, grandson of Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer, and Fleischer Studios on the project.
Told from the perspective of her creator, the film will chronicle the birth and evolution of Betty Boop and will examine the "relationship between the artist and his creation as he navigates the creative and commercial pressures of building one of the world’s first animated icons."
"Betty Boop is one of our nation’s most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow still remains pleasantly niche," Brunson said in a statement.
"She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century. After Erin and I met with Mark and learned more about his grandfather’s creation of Betty, I realized there was a much deeper story to tell. One that could be explored in a way that feels refreshing, subversive, and timeless, much like Betty herself," she added.
Meanwhile, Mark highlighed how Quinta "embodies Betty’s love of life, intelligence, humor, sassiness and compassion that the relationship between her as Betty and Max burst into life at its mere mention."
The actress is known for creating and starring in the ABC comedy series Abbott Elementary, where she portrays a perpetually optimistic second-grade teacher at the titular school.
Aside from this, she has also worked on Zootopia 2, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, iZombie, and more.
The upcoming film will mark Betty Boop's first theatrical motion picture appearance in a starring role since the 1930s. She originally appeared in the Talkartoons series before starring in her own films.
The character is described as a glamorous and spirited Jaze Age flapper known for her signature curls, baby voice, and playful personality. Over the decades, she has remained a pop culture icon.
As of writing, the film is still in its early development and no additional cast members and release date have been detailed.