A new feature film project is in development that will shed light on the legal battle between wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and Gawker Media. The production company Artists Equity, founded by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, has acquired the screenplay for 'Killing Gawker' from screenwriter Charles Randolph, known for his Oscar-winning work on 'The Big Short.' The screenplay is based on author Ryan Holiday's nonfiction book 'Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker and the Anatomy of Intrigue.'
Director Gus Van Sant, who previously collaborated with Damon and Affleck on the acclaimed film 'Good Will Hunting,' is in discussions to helm 'Killing Gawker.' Affleck is reportedly considering the role of Hulk Hogan in the film, although casting decisions are still pending.
The film's narrative will revolve around the legal dispute that culminated in Gawker Media agreeing to a $31 million settlement with Hulk Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea. The lawsuit stemmed from Gawker publishing excerpts of a sex tape involving Hogan, leading to the closure of Gawker's website. Billionaire tech entrepreneur Peter Thiel, a key figure in the legal battle who supported Hogan's lawsuit financially, will also feature prominently in the film.
This project marks a reunion for Affleck and Damon, who previously collaborated on the biographical film 'Air.' Affleck directed and starred in the film, with Damon portraying Nike employee Sonny Vaccaro. Van Sant, a highly acclaimed director with multiple Oscar nominations to his name, most recently directed the Amazon movie 'Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot,' starring Joaquin Phoenix and Jonah Hill.
