Sandra Bullock, though once in negotiations, was forced to pass on Annie — so, who’s next in that particular Hollywood line? In this instance, the (fully unsurprising) answer is Cameron Diaz, who is reported to have already signed for one of the musical’s most important roles: Miss Hannigan, supervisor of the New York orphanage at which a precocious young girl, Annie (Quvenzhané Wallis), learns about independence, singing, dancing, and other crucial facets of youthful expression. [TheWrap]
As was the case with the approaching of Bullock, such a large part has fallen to Diaz because, in Sony’s eye, she stands as an example of that rare female performer “with comedic chops and international appeal.” Communicating the onscreen appeal falls not only to her, but also director Will Gluck and scribes Emma Thompson & Aline Brosh McKenna, as well as producers Will Smith and Jay-Z. With the latter on soundtrack duties, expect Diaz and co. (including Jamie Foxx) to belt out a few tunes, while they’re at it.
Annie will arrive on December 25, 2014.
Any thoughts on this choice in casting? With this newest selection, how does Annie appear to be shaping up?