Jane Fonda to Play Nancy Reagan in 'The Butler'
Lee Daniels' newest movie project, "The Butler," is the tale of the White House butler who served many presidents, including Ronald Reagan. The movie is making waves in the press, not because of its theme or expected box office numbers, but rather because of its casting. Actress and extremely liberal activist Jane Fonda will be playing Nancy Reagan in the Daniels' film, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
This casting choice seems controversial, as Nancy Reagan is the wife of a staunchly conservative president, Ronald Reagan, and Fonda is known for not only her multiple Oscar wins, but also for her liberal activism in the 1960s and 70s. Her anti-Veitnam war statements were far more drastic and inflammatory than other high profile liberals at the time, and many conservatives still hold her in a negative light. The Hollywood Reporter says that the actress did not leave her left-wing activism and opinions in the Vietnam War era. Most recently, Fonda has said that the current Republican candidates "scare her."
Fonda's role as Nancy Regan will merely be a supporting role. Daniels' "The Butler" will spans many decades from 1952-1986. "The Butler" is the true story of Eugene Allen, an African-American butler who worked at the White House during that time period. The movie is based on a Washington Post article profiling Allen. Forrest Whitaker will play the White House butler. Many other high profile celebrities are rumored to be involved with the film, including Hugh Jackman, Liam Neeson and Oprah Winfrey, MSNBC reports.
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Fonda's most recent roles include "Monster-in-Law" and "Georgia Rule." The Oscar-winning actress will also appear in Bruce Beresford's new movie "Peace, Love and Misunderstanding."
Lee Daniels is best known for his work directing the hit dramatic film "Precious." He is currently directing a movie called "The Paperboy," which stars Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron, according to MSNBC.
