Matt Damon has closed a deal to star in a biopic of the late politician Robert F. Kennedy. Gary Ross (Seabiscuit) is directing from a script by Steven Knight (Eastern Promises).
An adaptation of the Evan Thomas biography “His Life,” according to Deadline, the film will focus on RFK’s movement from his brother’s immense public shadow to a political leader in 1968. Robert Kennedy was assassinated on June 5, 1968 at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles during his own presidential campaign.
Damon is a perfect pick for the role not just for his likeness to Kennedy. Working with some of the best modern filmmakers, the 39-year-old has honed his craft and transforms into the character. His portrayal of Francois Pienaar in Invictus was great (he’s nominated a “Supporting Actor” Oscar).
Chris Columbus was reported to be working on his own take on the historical figure, but there has been no word since August 2008. Emilio Estevez’s 2006 movie Bobby, which focused on the daily events leading up to RFK’s death, bombed at the box office despite being loaded with a massive cast, accurate stock footage, and the actual location before it was demolished.
Watch RFK’s moving speech on the day of Martin Luther King’s death below. I apologize for the subtitles. I couldn’t find a better copy.
