Here’s why everyone thinks Ariana Grande might be auditioning to play Audrey Hepburn in a rumored biopic

Ariana Grande’s recent red-carpet choices have sparked widespread speculation that she might be preparing for an iconic role: Audrey Hepburn in a yet-to-be-confirmed biopic. While Grande has not confirmed any such project, her fashion statements, public comments, and the current state of various Hepburn-related productions have fueled the rumor mill.

Fashion Choices Fuel Speculation

The conversation began in earnest at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 5, 2025, when Grande wore a vintage 1966 Givenchy gown in yellow. The dress is part of what the fashion house called its “epic Givenchy Haute Couture/Audrey Hepburn era.” Given Hepburn’s long-standing association with Givenchy—her close friendship with designer Hubert de Givenchy defined much of her signature style—this choice turned heads and drew immediate comparisons (People).

This wasn’t a one-off. Just two days later, at the National Board of Review gala, Grande donned a custom pastel pink satin gown by Loewe, radiating old-Hollywood elegance. And on January 3, she had appeared at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in a metallic tea-length ball gown that further evoked a mid-century aesthetic (People). Media outlets like Buzzfeed and Grazia were quick to pick up on these sartorial hints, suggesting that her wardrobe was “not-so-subtly” aligning with Hepburn’s aesthetic. Fans on social media have echoed these observations, highlighting her updos and tailored silhouettes as deliberate callbacks to Hepburn’s sophistication.

Grande’s Comments Add Fuel to the Fire

Grande’s own words have added another layer to the speculation. Speaking with Access Hollywood at the National Board of Review gala, she shared her admiration for old-Hollywood icons. “I’ve always loved old-Hollywood glamour — like, Marilyn [Monroe] and Audrey have always been my references,” she said (People). This acknowledgement, combined with her fashion choices, has led some to believe she’s manifesting a chance to step into Hepburn’s shoes.

However, Grande has been more reserved when directly asked about playing Hepburn. “Oh my goodness, why is everyone asking me this? You’re insane!” she said at the gala, while also admitting she was “flattered” by the comparison (People). In a separate interview with Entertainment Tonight, she noted that any Hepburn biopic would need to be done “so well and so perfectly,” which some have taken as a sign of interest—if not outright confirmation—of her openness to the role (Billboard).

The State of Audrey Hepburn Biopics

The rumors are further fueled by uncertainty surrounding an already announced Hepburn biopic. Back in 2022, news broke of a film starring Rooney Mara as Hepburn, with Luca Guadagnino set to direct. Yet, by early 2025, reports indicated that Guadagnino was no longer involved, and Mara admitted that the project was “not completely dead” but currently in limbo (People). This gap in the casting landscape has led some fans and industry watchers to wonder if a new Hepburn project could emerge—one potentially starring Grande.

It’s also worth noting that there have been other Hepburn-focused productions in development. A separate TV series about Hepburn’s early life, announced in 2021, remains another potential platform for telling the legendary actress’s story (Vogue). While Grande has not been linked to that series, the existence of multiple projects creates a fertile ground for speculation about who might embody the legendary screen icon next.

Media and Public Reaction

Media coverage and social media chatter have been pivotal in amplifying these rumors. Headlines from Us Weekly and Daily Mail have pointed out how Grande’s elegant red-carpet appearances and candid interviews hint at a deeper connection to Hepburn’s legacy. On platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), fans have debated her suitability, with some citing her acting experience—such as her recent work on Wicked—as evidence that she could handle such a role.

A particular X post from a fan account declared Grande’s Golden Globes outfit a “clear audition” for Hepburn, echoing the sentiment that her fashion choices might be part of a subtle campaign to secure the part.

What’s Next?

While no official announcements have been made, the combination of Grande’s fashion statements, her public admiration for Hepburn, and the uncertainty surrounding current Hepburn biopics has led many to believe that she’s positioning herself for the role. Whether this is intentional campaigning or simply a natural alignment of style and admiration, one thing is clear: Ariana Grande has reignited interest in who might next portray the beloved icon, making her a prominent name in the ongoing conversation.