Get Ready for the Alvin Ailey Biopic

It’s about time!

On Thursday, Fox Searchlight announced to The Hollywood Reporter that the studio has officially shaken hands with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on developing a movie version of Alvin Ailey’s extraordinary life. Yes, Hollywood is doing things right by partnering directly with artistic director emerita Judith Jamison (who originated the iconic Ailey solo Cry, NBD) and current artistic director Robert Battle to bring Ailey’s story—not to mention his towering legacy—to life.

Battle told THR, “We are incredibly excited about this special project with terrific partners highlighting one of the great African-American icons and artists. As we prepare to celebrate the Ailey company’s 60th anniversary this fall, his powerful legacy continues to touch the hearts, minds and spirits of people around the world.”

As this is just the start of the development process (which can take years before a film starts shooting, FYI), it’ll be quite some time before we learn more exciting details. But we’re already dream-casting the movie in our heads… Who would you hire to play (and dance!) the roles of Ailey, Jamison, and Lester Horton? Let us know in the comments!