Tom Hiddleston lands next lead movie role
Tom Hiddleston has landed his next lead movie role in Tenzing.
The new film follows the true life story of Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who alongside Edmund Hillary reached the summit of Mount Everest in 1953.
Hiddleston will play the role of Hillary, Deadline reports, with Poor Things' Willem Dafoe cast as expedition leader Colonel John Hunt. The role of Norgay is yet to be cast.
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The movie will be directed by Jennifer Peedom, who previously helmed documentary Sherpa, and written by Lion's Luke Davies.
Norgay's inspirational story saw him defy the odds to reach the summit of Everest, having attempted the climb on six previous occasions, doing so while also navigating difficult politics and harsh weather.
“I could not be more thrilled to be bringing Tenzing Norgay’s story to the screen," Peedom said. "I’ve been working towards this film my whole career, and I’m incredibly grateful to Tenzing’s family for entrusting me with it.
"I am excited to work with See-Saw Films and our amazing cast to bring this story to life. Tom Hiddleston and Willem Dafoe are two of the most generous and talented actors in the business, so pairing them with our brilliant Himalayan cast is going to be electric.
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"I have no doubt this film will resonate widely. We all have our own mountains to climb, and this film shows us what human beings are truly capable of.”
Norgay's son Norbu Tenzing added: “Jen is somebody who has earned the respect of our people, understands the community, and is deeply immersed in our culture.
"She’s a great human being and someone that we trust, and she has had a lifelong interest in the story of my father Tenzing Norgay. I am delighted that she has taken on this project and can’t wait for the world to see who my father was.”
Tenzing is due to start filming in spring 2025, and is yet to confirm a release date.
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