In a surprising turn, Netflix has pressed pause on its much-anticipated Olympics drama, 'Perfect,' following star Millie Bobby Brown's exit. The young actor, known for her role in 'Stranger Things,' was slated to portray the iconic gymnast Kerri Strug. However, creative differences reportedly led to Brown, 22, stepping away, as confirmed by two sources to Deadline.
The project was initially unveiled last September, generating buzz as Brown was set to embody Strug, a key member of the USA's 1996 'Magnificent Seven' gymnastics team. Strug's heroic vault, performed on an injured ankle, secured her team's gold medal victory and has since become a legendary moment in Olympic history.
Kerri Strug's moment of triumph was not just athletic but a cultural milestone, remembered vividly for the dramatic finish where her coach carried her off the mat and later to the podium. Beyond her Olympic fame, Strug transitioned into roles within education and government, leaving a lasting impression beyond sports.
The film adaptation aimed to capture her inspiring journey was to be penned by screenwriter Ronnie Sandahl and directed by Cate Shortland, who stepped in after Gia Coppola's departure. This team faced challenges, as Brown's exit has now put the project in limbo, with no current updates from Netflix representatives.
While 'Perfect' faces uncertainty, Millie Bobby Brown isn't slowing down. Fans can anticipate her return in the eagerly awaited third installment of 'Enola Holmes,' where she reprises her role as Sherlock's insightful sister. The film is set to drop on Netflix this summer.
Brown's collaboration with Netflix continues to bloom. She's wrapped up production on 'Just Picture It,' a rom-com she produced, and is also working on 'Nineteen Steps,' a film adaptation of her debut novel. This novel, inspired by her grandmother's wartime experiences, sparked some chatter due to its ghostwritten nature.
“Brown's departure from 'Perfect' hasn't slowed her momentum, as she juggles multiple projects with Netflix,” commented an industry insider.
Millie Bobby Brown's ventures continue to draw attention, blending youthful charm with a burgeoning producer's acumen.