Dominic Sessa, known for his breakout role in “The Holdovers,” is reportedly in discussions to take on the role of the famed chef and travel documentarian in “Tony,” a new project from Star Thrower Entertainment, the team behind “The Post,” “King Richard,” and “Eternity.” A24 is also in negotiations with Matt Johnson, director and co-writer of “BlackBerry,” to direct the film.
The script for “Tony” is penned by Lou Howe and Todd Bartels. A24 is set to produce alongside Trevor White and Tim White under their Star Thrower Entertainment banner, with Johnson and Matthew Miller also involved.
Emily Rose will serve as executive producer. Sessa, listed among Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch in 2023, is preparing for his next roles in “Now You See Me 3,” featuring Ariana Greenblatt and Justice Smith, Michael Showalter’s holiday comedy “Oh. What. Fun.,” and “Tow,” which stars Rose Byrne.
The specific period of Anthony Bourdain’s life that “Tony” will explore remains unclear. The renowned television host of “No Reservations” and “Parts Unknown” tragically took his own life in 2018. “Tony” follows the 2021 documentary “Roadrunner,” which faced both acclaim and controversy for using AI to generate quotes from Bourdain’s voice.
Sessa is represented by CAA, Untitled, and Steve Warren at Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, while Johnson and Miller are represented by CAA and Chris Spicer at Akin Gump.