Meryl Streep is set to portray Joni Mitchell in an upcoming biopic directed by Cameron Crowe. The casting announcement was made by record executive Clive Davis at his annual pre-Grammys gala held this past Saturday at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Mitchell was present at the party. Crowe confirmed the accuracy of the announcement in a statement to Rolling Stone.

Crowe, known for films like "Almost Famous" and "Jerry Maguire," has been working on the biopic with Mitchell for about four years. He first met Mitchell in 1979 while working as a music journalist and has remained a close friend ever since, even becoming her assistant in recent years. Crowe told Stephen Colbert in October 2025 that he has regular meetings with Mitchell where he can ask her anything. He describes the film as being from her perspective, looking out on her life.

The film is being developed in close collaboration with Mitchell, and Crowe has described it as "not a traditional biopic". Mitchell has kept all of her costumes, clothes, and instruments and is still the landlady of her famous house in Laurel Canyon. Crowe says the film will be a personal and wonderful look at her life and music.

Streep's role will focus on the later part of Mitchell's career. This project marks a return to film for Streep, who hasn't appeared in a movie since 2021's "Don't Look Up," in which she played a supporting role. Since then, she has been working on television, including Hulu's "Only Murders in the Building". She also has "The Devil Wears Prada 2" coming out this summer.

Anya Taylor-Joy has been rumored to be playing a younger version of Mitchell, though that casting has not yet been confirmed. The film aims to showcase Mitchell's artistry, personal struggles, and influence on generations of musicians.

Crowe's involvement signals a deeply personal approach to the subject matter. As a former Rolling Stone journalist, Crowe interviewed Mitchell in 1979 and has maintained a close friendship with her ever since. The film is expected to begin shooting later this year.