Ana de Armas has made headlines recently by addressing the fervent fan-casting discussions surrounding the highly anticipated Netflix adaptation of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. The novel, penned by Taylor Jenkins Reid, transformed into a cultural sensation following its rise on platforms like BookTok. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s golden era, the story chronicles the life of an enigmatic and glamorous starlet who reflects on her illustrious career, tumultuous marriages, and a secret love affair with fellow actress Celia St. James. This gripping narrative navigates themes of identity, ambition, and heartache, prompting avid readers to voice their visions for who should embody Evelyn Hugo on screen.
In a recent conversation with Entertainment Tonight during CinemaCon, de Armas was asked about her thoughts on being the top choice among fans for the iconic role and whether she’d be interested in taking it on. Her response was both optimistic and enthusiastic: “I would love that.” Below is her full statement:
I would love that, I think one of the things that I love about acting and my career, is being able to do everything. You have to try all the things you can. You can’t always eat the same thing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBIV5WprdZ0https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBIV5WprdZ0
Implications for Netflix’s Adaptation
BookTok’s Dream Casting Becomes a Reality
This fan enthusiasm highlights the deep emotional connection audiences have with the story of Evelyn Hugo. The novel’s portrayal of queer relationships, family dynamics, and personal identity resonates with many readers, making the casting choice all the more significant. Bringing an actress like de Armas, who possesses a shared Cuban heritage with the character, would undoubtedly add a layer of authenticity that fans have eagerly anticipated since the project was announced. With Reid serving as an executive producer, there’s growing optimism that the casting will align closely with the book’s essence. Encouraging progress has already been made, as Maggie Betts is set to direct and co-write the film.
Evaluating De Armas’ Enthusiasm
Evelyn Hugo Deserves a Star of Ana de Armas’ Caliber
The role of Evelyn Hugo appears to be tailor-made for de Armas, and her willingness to embrace this character is bound to excite fans. She has displayed remarkable versatility and the ability to channel the complexity that Evelyn embodies—navigating her elegance, vulnerability, and fierce tenacity as she evolves across decades. Moreover, de Armas’s inclination towards challenging and distinctive roles beyond her action-oriented projects reveals a readiness to engage with material of significant emotional and cultural depth.
While comprehensive updates on the Netflix adaptation have been limited—aside from the confirmation of the director—fans are invigorated by the prospect that their top pick for the role may indeed become a reality. As the anticipation builds and the streaming service prepares to finalize casting and commence filming, the clamor for de Armas’s inclusion in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo grows stronger with each passing day.
Source: ET