*Following decades of legal disputes, the heirs to the estate of Sammy Davis Jr. have now signed off on a biopic about the legendary entertainer.
They are joining with a producing team led by Lionel Richie, Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Mike Menchel in a rights deal, according to Deadline. The project will be based on the 1965 Davis memoir Yes I Can: The Story Of Sammy Davis, Jr., penned by Burt Boyar with Davis and his wife Jane.
“Sammy’s life story is an unparalleled tale of what can be achieved with unbridled perseverance and talent,” said di Bonaventura. “It is at its essence a uniquely American story of one man’s ability to use his talents to reach the pinnacle of his profession.”
Added Richie: “It’s an honor for me to bring the life of one of my idols and friends to the screen. I’m so grateful to be working closely with the Davis family on this and couldn’t be happier to be moving forward on this passion project.”
All of Davis’ heirs — his four sons and a daughter — are behind the biopic.
“I am happy to tell the whole entire world that my family and I look forward to working with everyone to educate audiences of all ages about our father’s incredible American adventure,” said his youngest son Manny, the estate administrator.
We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!
