Lily Collins to Play Audrey Hepburn in a Film About the Making of ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’

Hollywood star Lily Collins has been officially cast to portray legendary actress Audrey Hepburn in a new film that chronicles the creation of the iconic 1961 romantic comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

The announcement comes as the project takes a major step forward after nearly a decade in development.

Collins, 36, best known for her work on Emily in Paris and roles in films like MaXXXine, will not only star as Hepburn but also serve as a producer on the project, which is based on Sam Wasson’s acclaimed nonfiction book Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the Dawn of the Modern Woman.

The screenplay is being penned by Alena Smith, creator of Apple TV+’s Dickinson.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at a Cinematic Classic

Unlike a traditional remake of the beloved film, the new movie — still untitled — will focus on the behind-the-scenes story of how Breakfast at Tiffany’s was conceived, cast and produced. The source material is described as the “first complete account of the making of the film,” offering an in-depth look at production challenges, creative tensions and the personalities who shaped Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Early narratives reportedly include Truman Capote’s objections to Hepburn’s casting (he favored Marilyn Monroe for the lead), and on-set incidents like a near-accident during the filming of the film’s famous opening sequence on Fifth Avenue in New York City.

The story will also feature figures central to the original production, including costume designer Edith Head and director Blake Edwards, though casting for those roles has not yet been announced.

Collins’ Tribute to a Film Legend

Announcing the role on Instagram, Collins described taking on Hepburn’s persona as a personal and professional milestone: “It’s with almost 10 years of development and a lifetime of admiration and adoration for Audrey that I’m finally able to share this,” she wrote. “Honored and ecstatic don’t begin to express how I feel…”

The revelation has sparked enthusiasm online, where many fans have praised her casting as a fitting tribute to Hepburn’s enduring legacy.

Production Backing and Creative Team

The project is being developed with support from Imagine Entertainment, with producers including Brian Grazer, Jeb Brody and Justin Wilkes. Collins’ own production company, Case Study Films, is also involved, with Charlie McDowell and Scott LaStaiti producing alongside her.

Executive producers include Sam Wasson, Brandon Millan and Michael Shamberg, while Joyce Choi oversees development. A director has not yet been announced, and no release date has been set.

By revisiting one of Hollywood’s most iconic moments through the eyes of those behind the camera, the film promises a fresh and richly detailed portrait of cinematic history, celebrating both Hepburn’s influence and the creative forces that brought Breakfast at Tiffany’s to life.