Actor Lily Collins is set to portray screen legend Audrey Hepburn in a forthcoming film centred on the making of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, the 1961 romantic comedy widely regarded as Hepburn’s most iconic role.

Collins, 36, confirmed the casting on her Instagram Stories on February 23, describing the project as the result of nearly a decade of development. “It’s with almost 10 years of development and a lifetime of admiration and adoration for Audrey that I’m finally able to share this,” she wrote, adding that she felt “honoured and ecstatic”.

The film will be written by screenwriter and producer Alena Smith, known for Apple TV’s Dickinson, and is based on Sam Wasson’s non-fiction book Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and the “Dawn of the Modern Woman”. The book chronicles the production and cultural impact of the film, offering insights into key figures including author Truman Capote, costume designer Edith Head and director Blake Edwards.

“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” starred Hepburn opposite George Peppard and followed the story of Holly Golightly, a young woman navigating love and ambition in New York City. The film won two Academy Awards in 1962, and Hepburn received a Best Actress nomination. She had previously won an Oscar for Roman Holiday in 1954.

Following the announcement, Collins reshared several past photographs in which she paid tribute to Hepburn’s style, including earlier birthday posts and fashion-inspired looks.