“Rodeo Queens” Amazon Comedy Series to Star Dakota Johnson
After some competitive bids, Dakota Johnson has officially signed on to both star in and executive produce a new comedy series by Amazon Studios. Amazon reportedly beat several other large companies to land the rights to “Rodeo Queens”, a comedy series that will be shot mockumentary-style.
A writer’s room is currently being assembled by Amazon, with a full order series expected.
A real life rodeo queen typically acts as the “face” of a local rodeo for a period of one year - usually required to wear a cowboy hat, crown, and sash with her title on it. Being a rodeo queen requires certain skills such as western-style horse riding, rodeo knowledge, public speaking, and personality.
This mockumentary series will follow an ensemble cast of rodeo queen hopefuls as they compete for the coveted crown.
This casting marks a reunion between Johnson and Amazon Studios, as she starred in the disappointing remake Suspria back in 2018. Based on the 1977 Italian horror film of the same name, the film was polarized by critics. However, Rodeo Queens offers plenty of excitement, as we’ll get a first hand look at Dakota Johnson’s lasso skills, Texas twang, and other fun rodeo techniques. Expect a way more promising series with an original premise, featuring a lead actress who has proven to have great comedic timing.
It also marks a return to television for Johnson, who previously starred in the short-lived Fox sitcom Ben and Kate. Since then she has established herself as a film actress, best known for her role as Anastasia Steele in the Fifty Shades film series (2015-2018). She's also appeared in big budget films such as Black Mass and Bad Times at the El Royale, and recently in the well-received comedy-drama The Peanut Butter Falcon. When Hollywood resumes production, Johnson will be working on Olivia Wilde’s next movie, Don’t Worry, Darling.
Other TV comedy veterans are attached to the project as well. I Am Not Okay With This co-creator Christay Hall created the series and will serve as showrunner, while Sleater-Kinney musician and Portlandia star Carrie Brownstein is set to direct, although it is still unclear if it is just the pilot or the entire series. Brownstein and Johnson previously worked together on The Nowhere Inn, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020.
Elisa Ellis and Ro Donnelly (who founded TeaTime Pictures with Johnson) will serve as executive producers alongside Johnson. Amazon Studios will produce along with Platform One Media in association with TeaTime Pictures.
There's still no word on the full cast list or when the series will premiere.
The premise seems like it can do well in a mockumentary format, especially with the creative team attached to it. Anticipate the intriguing series to hopefully hit your Amazon Prime account this year.
