Justin Theroux, Kathy Bates, Sam Waterston Join Felicity Jones’ Ruth Bader Ginsburg Biopic
Justin Theroux, Kathy Bates, and Sam Waterston have joined Felicity Jones in the Ruth Bader Ginsburg biopic “On the Basis of Sex,” with production launching in Montreal.
As previously announced, Armie Hammer will portray Ginsburg’s husband, Marty, as they team to bring the first landmark gender discrimination case before the Supreme Court. Jack Reynor (“Detroit”), Stephen Root, and Cailee Spaeny have also joined the cast, with Mimi Leder directing a script by Ginsburg’s nephew, Daniel Stiepleman.
Robert Cort is producing, Participant Media is financing, and Jeff Skoll and Jonathan King of Participant are executive producing. Karen Loop and Betsy Danbury will also serve as executive producers.
The feature will premiere in 2018 in line with Justice Ginsburg’s 25th anniversary on the Supreme Court.
Theroux will play Mel Wulf, a longtime national legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union. Bates will portray attorney and activist Dorothy Kenyon and Waterston will play Erwin Griswold, who served as Solicitor General of the United States under Presidents Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon.
“Our story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg resonates with me on so many levels — from the inspiring partnership she found in her marriage, to overcoming adversity as a woman and discovering the strength of her own voice, to her empathetic commitment to those in need of a voice no matter their gender, race, status, or religious beliefs,” Leder said. “In these tumultuous times, stories like this speak to the heart of humanity and remind us what it means to lead with love and compassion as the way forward.”
“On the Basis of Sex” is planned for release through Participant’s output arrangements via Amblin Partners, with Focus Features distributing domestically. International output partners are Entertainment One, Nordisk, CJ Entertainment, Alibaba Pictures, Reliance Entertainment, and Lev Cinema. Lionsgate will sell all available international territories.
Related stories
Sam Waterston Returns to 'Law & Order' Universe
Film Review: 'The Lego Ninjago Movie'
Meet Dr. Dina: Pot Doc to the Stars and 'Cannabis Consultant' on 'Disjointed'
Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!
