A Look at First Ladies on the Big and Small Screen
Posted 08.30.12 by Ryan
The opening of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., is just the beginning of what is sure to be a contentious and interesting presidential race. Republican nominee Mitt Romney's wife Ann was one of the speakers the first night of the convention, a public-speaking role that was new to the potential First Lady. Should the Romneys end up in the White House, it's possible that Ann could end up in a movie at some point, like many First Ladies before her. While you're thinking of who could possibly play Ann Romney, either as a First Lady or in a movie about the Romney campaign — don't forget, John McCain's unsuccessful 2008 Presidential campaign was adapted into the HBO movie Game Change — Hollywood Dailies has compiled a look at First Ladies on the small and big screen in the clip above.
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Even more First Ladies will grace the big screen in the upcoming The Butler, the biopic from Precious director Lee Daniels that follows the life of White House butler Eugene Allen, who served eight different administrations during his tenure from 1952 to 1986. Minka Kelly will take the baton from The Kennedys' Katie Holmes to play Jackie Kennedy, while Jane Fonda will play Nancy Reagan. With the New Orleans shoot on hold due to Hurricane Isaac, Fonda recently blogged about reaching out to the former First Lady for advice on the role.
I’ve gotten used to thinking of him now as Ronnie, which is what Ms. Reagan calls him. I’m excited about this. I feel very ready to take her on. I wish it was more than a cameo. I know that she is pleased that I am playing her....
I asked [writer] Annette [Tapert] to tell Ms. Reagan I was honored to be playing her. And, because I have a scene walking down a White House corridor with then Secretary of State, James Baker, I wanted to know what she used to call him (Jim) and would she have linked her arm in his (no).
Did we miss your favorite on-screen First Lady? If so, let us know with a comment below.