Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz are one of the most iconic couples of all time. They were stars of the CBS sitcom I Love Lucy—which ran from 1951 to 1957—and a real-life duo. And though their 20-year marriage would eventually end in divorce, they remained friends until his death in 1986. Their romance pushed boundaries and made waves, solidifying them as a classic Hollywood couple. And now, their legacy will get the documentary treatment from another comedy legend: Amy Poehler.
Poehler is set to direct a feature-length documentary called Lucy & Desi about the dynamic pair. Imagine Documentaries and White Horse Pictures will produce the film, Poehler’s first as a documentary director. It is said to be the “definitive” film about the personal and professional lives of Ball and Arnaz, as their family estate will help with production. It is also the biggest documentary to be financed by Imagine Documentaries to date. Ron Howard, another sitcom star from the bygone era, will serve as one of the many executive producers. Mark Monroe of Diamond Docs will write the film.
CBS Television Distribution
According to Deadline, the film will tell the story of the groundbreaking actress and comedian Ball, who broke new ground for women in television—including women like Amy Poehler. Her relationship with Arnaz will inform the narrative; the estate will even provide never-before-seen archival footage and writings. Lucy & Desi will also acknowledge Ball’s help in getting Gene Roddenberry’s Star Trek on the air.
“I am so excited to work with Imagine Docs to help present the incredible life and work of the brave and hilarious Lucille Ball, and her husband Desi,” said Poehler in a statement.
The film is currently in development and in the early research stages. We’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available about Lucy & Desi.
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