From book to big screen? Uncertainty surrounds Spears’ memoir adaptation

Last October, Britney Spears released her autobiography, "The Woman In Me." The singer's life, already rich material for a book, seemed ideally suited for a film adaptation, with top studios seemingly interested. Among them were said to be Brad Pitt's studio. However, it seems that such enthusiasm might have been overblown. Even Spears herself appears to be dampening the excitement.

"The Woman In Me" details Britney Spears' harrowing journey from her childhood debut to the present. The memoir delves into her relationships, an abortion she had during her relationship with Justin Timberlake, mental health struggles, and her father's decade-long guardianship. In its first week, the autobiography sold an impressive 1.1 million copies.

News of a possible movie or series adaptation of Spears' memoirs surfaced almost immediately. According to Hollywood magazine "The Ankler", those expressing interest included Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, Brad Pitt's Plan B, and Margot Robbie's LuckyChap Entertainment.

However, the actress known for her role as "Barbie," reportedly told IndieWire, "It's the first I've heard, it's not true."

Even Shonda Rhimes, who wrote and produced the 2002 Britney Spears film "Crossroads", denied trying to secure rights to adapt the memoir. Representatives for Witherspoon and Pitt have not commented on these rumors. The author herself also appears not overly keen on the idea.

In late 2022, "Stranger Things" star Millie Bobby Brown expressed a desire to portray Spears, but was met with significant objection.

Spears addressed rumors of a film about her life on social media, stating, "I hear some want to make a movie about my life. People, I'm not dead yet."

Despite initially expressing openness to a narrative adaptation of her book after "The Woman In Me"'s release, Spears reportedly withdrew from negotiations by mid-November.

"She doesn't feel strong enough to continue the project. She's overwhelmed by the media frenzy that's erupted around her. She needs to catch her breath," was the statement given by a reported source to "The Ankler".