Josh Gad eyed for role of Roger Ebert in Russ & Roger Go Beyond

Last Updated on August 5, 2021

Back in August we told you about the upcoming movie RUSS & ROGER GO BEYOND, a film that plans to explore the friendship and working relationship between the late great film critic Roger Ebert and filmmaker Russ Meyer who teamed up to make BEYOND THE VALLEY OF THE DOLLS. The film has Will Ferrell eyed to play Meyer and now Josh Gad (FROZEN) is being looked at as a potential lead for the role of Ebert.

While there is no director yet, the script is written by Christopher Cluess (SNL, MADtv). The report also says that while Gad is the top choice for the part, it's not a done deal yet. I’m sure for Gad a role like this, acting alongside Will Ferrell and playing the part of a legend, has to be enticing. I’ve never sat through BEYOND THE VALLEY OF THE DOLLS all the way, it's one of those movies that would come on late at night and you pretty much give up trying to stay awake. I can certainly see why it might be considered a cult classic though; Ebert and Meyer went to battle with the ratings board over the films X-rating. I can’t wait to see that played out; think the "mammaries" scene in THE AVIATOR but with these guys:

It's shaping up to be a big year for Gad; he can next be seen in THE WEDDING RINGER on January 16, and later this year alongside Adam Sandler in Sony’s PIXELS. Not to mention he’s starring in a new FX series, The Comedians, with Billy Crystal. I think he fits the part well enough, I'd like to see a short list of other considered out of curiosity I think.

Do you think Gad is a good choice to play Ebert? Who else would you recommend?