Netflix has officially cancelled its highly anticipated Olympics drama film, 'Perfect', following the departure of lead actor Millie Bobby Brown due to creative differences. The streaming giant confirmed the project's termination after Brown, aged 22, exited the production, leaving the film without its star.
Creative Differences Lead to Project Collapse
Sources close to the production have revealed to Deadline that Brown's exit was prompted by significant creative disagreements. The film, which was announced in September of last year, was set to feature Brown portraying real-life American Olympic gymnast Kerri Strug, a member of the legendary 1996 'Magnificent Seven' USA gymnastics team.
The Iconic Olympic Moment That Inspired the Film
Kerri Strug's story is one of the most memorable in Olympic history. At just 18 years old, the Tucson-born athlete performed a vault on an injured ankle during the team finals, securing first place for the United States. Her coach had to carry her off the mat after her ankle gave out, and she was later carried to the podium for the gold medal ceremony. This moment has since become a cultural touchstone, with Strug appearing on talk shows and cereal boxes, and later working as an elementary school teacher and in White House and Justice Department roles.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team
The film was to be directed by Cate Shortland, who took over from original director Gia Coppola, granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola and niece of Sofia Coppola, after she left the project. Screenwriter Ronnie Sandahl was tasked with bringing Strug's inspiring story to the screen, but with Brown's departure, Netflix has decided to scrap the entire production.
Millie Bobby Brown's Busy Schedule Continues
Despite the cancellation, Brown remains heavily involved with Netflix. She is set to reprise her role as Enola Holmes in a third sequel premiering this summer. Additionally, she has completed production on the romantic comedy 'Just Picture It', where she also served as a producer, and is working on an adaptation of her debut novel, 'Nineteen Steps', inspired by her grandmother's experience during the 1943 Bethnal Green tube disaster.
Controversy Surrounding Brown's Literary Work
The publication of 'Nineteen Steps' in 2023 sparked debate over ghostwriting practices, as the cover featured only Brown's name despite being ghostwritten by author Kathleen McGurl. This reignited discussions about celebrity-authored books, similar to those by figures like Katie Price and Zoella.
Netflix and Brown's representatives have been contacted for further comment on the film's cancellation, but no additional statements have been released at this time.
