Date: 8th July 2021

Michelle Williams Cast as Henry VIII’s Sixth Wife in Karim Aïnouz's 'Firebrand'.


Michelle Williams will play Katherine Parr, the last of Henry VIII's six wives, in Karim Aïnouz's "Firebrand".

The film marks the English-language debut of Karim Aïnouz, and goes into production in the U.K. in early 2022. The film is produced by Gabrielle Tana of Magnolia Mae Films, and written by Henrietta and Jessica Ashworth.

"I could not be more excited to be bringing the undiscovered story of Katherine Parr to the screen, a ferociously brilliant woman who I am inspired by deeply and has been largely invisible, or certainly under-represented in English history. Much is known about Henry VIII’s tyrannical reign, and those who perished and suffered at his hands, but my focus here is on a woman who not only managed to survive but also, to thrive. This is a reimagining of a 'period' film, a psychological horror film set in the Tudor court; a story of intrigue, agency and survival. Having Michelle Williams portray this remarkable woman, an actress of immeasurable talent and passion, is a dream come true." Aïnouz commented.

While Henry's second wife Anne Boleyn and third wife Jane Seymour are the focus of multiple films and shows, Catherine Parr has seen only a few screen incarnations.

Deborah Kerr played her in 1970's "Young Bess", Rosalie Crutchley was her in two BBC dramas that decade, and more recently Joely Richardson portrayed her in the fourth and final season of Showtim's "The Tudors" in 2010.

Source: Press Release