Country legend George Jones died less than two months ago, but now a movie about his life is already in the works. The Hollywood Reporter notes that the rights for his life story have been sold and a film is in the planning stages.
The project has apparently been in the works for some time, since screenwriter Dennis L. Baxter began working with Jones and his wife Nancy prior to the singer's death back in April. Nancy is still on board as a producer and consultant. Now, the project has been acquired by 28 Entertainment.
Nancy said in a statement, "Over the years we have been approached to make George's life into a feature film, but it was not until Dennis Baxter became involved that we were confident the story could be told accurately. George and I started working with Dennis six years ago in crafting the life-long story. Knowing George had input in this film and that it will be told the way he wanted it told, I feel we are in good hands to collaborate with 28 Entertainment as we move forward with production."
A statement from 28 Entertainment adds, "George's career is one of the most celebrated of country music legends, and we feel it is important to tell his story for fans and music lovers around the world. We are huge fans of George and his music and look forward to working closely with Nancy as we bring his life to the big screen."
In addition to being a country music icon with a string of hits, Jones had a famously rocky personal life. He was married four times, faced drug charges, battled alcoholism and missed so many concerts that he earned the nickname "No Show Jones."
The project has apparently been in the works for some time, since screenwriter Dennis L. Baxter began working with Jones and his wife Nancy prior to the singer's death back in April. Nancy is still on board as a producer and consultant. Now, the project has been acquired by 28 Entertainment.
Nancy said in a statement, "Over the years we have been approached to make George's life into a feature film, but it was not until Dennis Baxter became involved that we were confident the story could be told accurately. George and I started working with Dennis six years ago in crafting the life-long story. Knowing George had input in this film and that it will be told the way he wanted it told, I feel we are in good hands to collaborate with 28 Entertainment as we move forward with production."
A statement from 28 Entertainment adds, "George's career is one of the most celebrated of country music legends, and we feel it is important to tell his story for fans and music lovers around the world. We are huge fans of George and his music and look forward to working closely with Nancy as we bring his life to the big screen."
In addition to being a country music icon with a string of hits, Jones had a famously rocky personal life. He was married four times, faced drug charges, battled alcoholism and missed so many concerts that he earned the nickname "No Show Jones."