A documentary about the seven actors who played the von Trapp children in The Sound Of Music is in jeopardy because legendary actress Julie Andrews, who starred in the 1965 film, refuses to let producers use her image.
Industry newspaper Daily Variety reports that Michael McLean, who served as casting director on the film, says the famed vocalist will not allow film company Digital Ranch to include her likeness in the new project. Apparently, Julie plans her own competing special to commemorate the classic movie's 40th anniversary in 2005.
The Mary Poppins star is concerned network interest will be diminished by the Digital Ranch documentary, which will likely air on US cable channel A&E.
McLean, who has been involved in the documentary's planning for the last few years, says he has the participation of many involved in The Sound Of Music, including the estate of composer Richard Rogers and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein. But, he says, "Without clips of Julie Andrews, we're dead in the water."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
