According to Deadline, Vanessa Kirby is in talks to join Kitbag, Ridley Scott’s historical film starring Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon. Kirby will replace Jodie Comer as Empress Josephine. Comer left the project due to scheduling issues.
Kirby is best known for her portrayal of Princess Margaret in Netflix’s The Crown. She earned her first Oscar nomination for Pieces of a Woman. The actress has also appeared in Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw and Mission: Impossible — Fallout. She will return for the upcoming Mission: Impossible VII.
Kitbag focuses on Napoleon’s rise to power and the love story between him and Josephine. Joaquin Phoenix remains on board to portray Napoleon. The film is expected to start shooting in Europe later in January. Apple Studios is financing and producing the project. David Scarpa is writing the script. Scott and Kevin Walsh produce for Scott Free Productions.