Rachel Zegler to Star in Upcoming Biopic Detailing Iconic Singer’s Life
Gloria Estefan is set to inspire audiences once again, this time through a major biopic about her life. The singer has confirmed that rising star Rachel Zegler, known for her roles in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, Disney’s Snow White, and Evita on the West End, will play her in the film.
“I think she’s awesome, I think she’s incredible. I know she’s killed it in Evita,” Estefan said. She added that the project has been in development for several years.
“We’re still working on the green light because we’re figuring out where to do it, how to do it. This has been in the works for quite a few years now. And that’s how it is. You work, you work, you work, and then all of a sudden, boom, the trigger’s pulled and you’ve got to do it right away. But she’s lovely.”
When asked whether Zegler would accept the role, Gloria said, “I think she would. I just need to offer her an actual part. So we need to be greenlit completely and we’re almost there. I met her by Zoom. She’s got a beautiful singing voice and she’s a great actor.”
The biopic was initially expected to adapt Gloria’s 2015 jukebox musical On Your Feet!, but Estefan clarified that the movie will go beyond the stage show. “The movie’s not going to be the show. There’s a lot in there,” she said.
Gloria’s journey began in Cuba, where she was born, before her family fled to the United States during the Cuban Revolution. Today, she is one of Miami’s most recognized figures and counts David and Victoria Beckham among her friends. The Beckhams are heavily involved in Miami through David’s soccer team, Inter Miami CF.
Reflecting on her experiences with the couple, Gloria shared, “I’ve been at their home. It’s lovely. David is such a lovely man — and Victoria. We actually went to a dinner at their home. President Barack Obama was there, and the head of Reddit, and Jeff Bezos. It was really cool. It was small, but only the most powerful people in that room. It was great. They’re very kind people. And he’s done amazing things for soccer, or football, as you call it here.”
The biopic is still awaiting a final green light, but with Zegler attached and Estefan involved, the project promises to be a compelling look at the life of the music icon.
This film could be a major milestone for both Gloria Estefan and Rachel Zegler, showcasing the singer’s incredible life story while giving Zegler another chance to shine on the big screen. What do you think of Zegler playing Estefan? Share your thoughts in the comments.
