Halle Bailey has been announced as the latest addition to Universal Pictures' upcoming project, a musical helmed by Pharrell Williams and Michel Gondry. Set in Virginia Beach during the summer of 1977, the film draws inspiration from Williams' own childhood neighborhood, Atlantis Apartments. Bailey will share the screen with Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Da'Vine Joy Randolph, who recently clinched an Oscar.
Michel Gondry, known for his work on films like 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' and 'The Science of Sleep,' is set to direct the project. The script is penned by Martin Hynes and Steven Levenson, both accomplished writers in their own right.
Williams and Mimi Valdés will produce the film through i am OTHER, while Gil Netter will produce via Gil Netter Productions. Universal's Ryan Jones and Christine Sun will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.
In 2023, Bailey took on the lead role in Disney's live-action adaptation of 'The Little Mermaid,' earning critical acclaim for her performance. She also starred in Blitz Bazawule's 'The Color Purple' alongside notable names like Fantasia Barrino and Taraji P. Henson.
On the small screen, Bailey is recognized for her role in the 'Black-ish' spinoff 'Grown-ish,' where she appeared for four seasons. As a musician, Bailey forms one half of the duo Chloe x Halle with her sister Chloe. Her solo debut single, 'Angel,' garnered a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song.
Bailey is represented by CAA, a prominent talent agency in the entertainment industry.
