Netflix has secured the rights to a highly anticipated drama series focusing on the life and career of Frank Sinatra, a monumental figure in both music and film. This project, spearheaded by Oscar-winning director Bill Condon, brings together Lionsgate Television, Universal Music Group’s Polygram Entertainment, and Frank Sinatra Enterprises. The series promises to showcase Sinatra’s iconic music and performances, with his daughter, Tina Sinatra, serving as an executive producer.
Bill Condon, known for his work on “Gods and Monsters” and “Twilight,” is slated to write and direct the pilot episode and will act as showrunner for this definitive biographical series. The project aims to delve into the life of the quintessential 20th Century American celebrity, exploring his multifaceted career as a singer, actor, and producer. Condon will executive produce alongside his partner Greg Yolen. Representing Frank Sinatra Enterprises, Tina Sinatra and Bob Finkelstein will also executive produce. Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff, and David Blackman will produce via Polygram, while Jack Morrissey is also an executive producer.
This high-profile series generated significant interest and multiple bids in the premium marketplace, stemming from the established relationship between Lionsgate and Universal Music Group, which holds the rights to the majority of Frank Sinatra’s music catalog. The two companies previously shared a first-look television deal.
Sinatra’s life story is rich with compelling narratives: his humble beginnings as the son of Italian immigrants in New Jersey, a dynamic and sometimes tumultuous career in music and acting, his association with the famous Rat Pack, alleged ties to the Mafia that were investigated by the FBI, and a personal life marked by relationships with Hollywood luminaries such as Ava Gardner, Mia Farrow, Judy Garland, Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, and Angie Dickinson.
The legendary crooner, famous for hits like “New York, New York,” was previously the subject of the 1992 miniseries “Sinatra,” where he was portrayed by Philip Casnoff. The miniseries also featured Marcia Gay Harden as Ava Gardner, Gina Gershon as Nancy Barbato Sinatra, and Olympia Dukakis as Dolly Sinatra. A feature film adaptation had been in development for a long time with Martin Scorsese attached to direct, but it ultimately did not move forward due to objections from the Sinatra family.
Bill Condon, an Academy Award winner for his screenplay “Gods and Monsters,” has a strong background in musical features. He penned the screenplay for “Chicago,” which earned him an Oscar nomination, directed and wrote “Dreamgirls,” and was involved in the globally successful “The Greatest Showman.” Condon is also set to direct an upcoming film adaptation of the musical “Guys and Dolls,” famously adapted into a 1955 film starring Sinatra himself alongside Marlon Brando. Condon is represented by WME, Anonymous Content, and Alexander, Lawrence, Frumes & Labowitz.
This series promises a deep dive into the life of an artist who not only defined an era of music but also left an indelible mark on American culture. The exploration of his music, his personal relationships, and the societal context of his time will offer audiences a comprehensive look at the enduring legacy of Frank Sinatra.
References
- Deadline. (2021, December 15). Frank Sinatra Series Music Starring Bill Condon, Tina Sinatra & Lionsgate Officially A Go At Netflix. Deadline.