Billie Eilish: Acting debut in new film in sight
The pop star is set to play the protagonist in The Bell Jar
Billie Eilish could soon be making her acting debut in a movie. The singer is set to play the lead role in the film adaptation of Sylvia Plath's classic novel "The Bell Jar". The semi-autobiographical book was published in 1963 and is the only novel by the American poet Plath. It centers on the young Esther Greenwood, who struggles with her mental illness and the social pressures of the 1950s. As Deadline reports, Eilish is in advanced talks for the role of the protagonist.
Sarah Polley is responsible for directing and writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of "The Bell Jar". The filmmaker is also an actress, but has already directed several films. Most recently the drama "Women Talking", which was nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture in 2023. Polley even won the coveted Academy Award for her screenplay for the film. Joy Gorman Wettels is on board as producer of "The Bell Jar".
Billie Eilish: Versatile artist
This would be Billie Eilish's film debut, but not her first role. She has already demonstrated her acting talent on TV before. In 2023, she appeared as a supporting actress in the mini-series "Swarm" on Amazon Prime. The satirical horror story focuses on Dre, played by Dominique Fishback, a young woman who is obsessed with a world-famous pop star. Eilish in turn plays Eva, the leader of a cult that takes care of the protagonist.
As a singer, Eilish has been one of the biggest pop stars on the planet for several years. Since her debut album "When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?" was released in 2019, she has become an integral part of the global music charts. With hits like "Bad Guy" and "Birds of a Feather", she has cemented her status as a superstar. As far as the film world is concerned, Eilish has also left her musical mark. She won the Oscar in 2022 with her brother Finneas O'Connell for their song "No Time to Die" from the eponymous James Bond blockbuster. Two years later, the two were awarded another Oscar for the "Barbie" ballad "What Was I Made For?".
In good company
If Eilish were to make her feature film debut in front of the camera soon, she would be in good company. Other world-famous singers have also immortalized themselves on the big screen. For example, Whitney Houston, who once starred alongside Kevin Costner in the thriller "Bodyguard" , is unforgotten. With worldwide box office takings of 411 million US dollars, the film became an international box office hit.
In recent years, Lady Gaga in particular has made a name for herself as an acting pop star. She received particular praise for her leading role in "A Star is Born". In the musical drama, she proved alongside director and lead actor Bradley Cooper that she is not only a gifted singer, but also a convincing actress. The reward for her efforts: in 2019, Lady Gaga was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her role in "A Star is Born". Her last film role for the time being was also impressive in "Joker: Folie à Deux". The way she seduces Joaquin Phoenix, alias Batman villain Joker, is something to behold. Even if the movie itself had a hard time with critics and audiences.
Concert film by Billie Eilish and James Cameron
It remains to be seen whether Eilish will enjoy as much success as a film actress as she did as a singer. In any case, you will soon be able to admire her on the big screen. After "Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles" was released in 2021 on Disney+, her new concert film will be released in cinemas: "Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour". She was not only in front of the camera for the 3D concert film, but also directed it alongside "Avatar" director James Cameron. "Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour" opens in cinemas on May 8, 2026.
