Jason Clarke To Star As Ted Kennedy In Chappaquiddick Film

(Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)

Apex Entertainment is in talks with Jason Clarke (Zero Dark Thirty, Everest, upcoming HHhH) to star as Ted Kennedy in the movie “Chappaquiddick” and with John Curran (The Painted Veil, Tracks) to direct. Apex Entertainment’s Mark Ciardi and Campbell McInnes are producing. DMG’s Chris Cowles and Chris Fenton are executive producing. Apex is financing the film.

Taylor Allen and Andrew Logan wrote the screenplay which was featured on the 2015 Black List. They also serve as executive producers. The biographical drama takes place the eve of the moon landing when Senator Ted Kennedy becomes entangled in a tragic car accident that results in the death of Mary Jo Kopechne. Over the course of the next seven days, the Senator struggles to decide between following his own moral compass or using his power and influence to protect the family legacy.

“Jason Clarke is the perfect choice to take on the complexities of this role. He has unwavering passion and commitment to this project. We’re equally pleased to bring on John Curran to direct. John’s body of work speaks for itself, and he’s such a visionary filmmaker. We’re excited to begin work with both of them on this incredible project,” Ciardi says

Sam Taylor Johnson was previously attached to direct but departed due to scheduling issues with Netflix pilot “Gypsy.”

Filming is expected to begin in the late summer.

Jason Clarke is repped by Robert Stein Management and WME. John Curran is repped by CAA and attorneys Steve Warren and Barry Littman. Taylor Allen and Andrew Logan are repped by DMG.