“Veronica Mars” and Frozen star Kristen Bell has, according to a story today at The Hollywood Reporter, joined the cast of the upcoming Universal Pictures comedy Michelle Darnell opposite leading lady Melissa McCarthy (Tammy, The Heat). McCarthy, who was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids, headlines the film as a titan of industry, who is sent to prison after she’s caught for insider trading. When she emerges ready to rebrand herself as America’s latest sweetheart, not everyone she screwed over is so quick to forgive and forget.
Based on an original character created by McCarthy, Michelle Darnell will be directed by Ben Falcone (Tammy) and is written by McCarthy and Falcone alongside their Groundlings collaborator, Steve Mallory. Peter Dinklage recently signed on to play the film’s antagonist with Kathy Bates (who also appeared in Tammy) set to appear as Darnell’s mother.
Bell’s character will be that of Ms. Darnell’s personal assistant with whom McCarthy’s character works closely to rebuild her empire. Bell will be back on the big screen very soon, reprising her voice role as Anna in Disney’s Frozen Fever, the short film sequel to 2013’s runaway animated hit. Look for it in theaters before screenings of Cinderella beginning March 13.
The film will be produced by McCarthy and Falcone through their On the Day Productions and Will Ferrell and Adam McKay through their Gary Sanchez Productions.
Michelle Darnell is set to hit theaters on April 8, 2016.
(Photo Credit: FayesVision / WENN.com)
