Lisa Cholodenko Adds Directing Duties to Kristen Wiig’s ‘Toni Erdmann’

Jack Nicholson no longer attached to adaptation of German-language comedy hit

Kristen Wiig Lisa Cholodenko Toni Erdmann
Getty Images

The english-language adaptation of German comedy sensation “Toni Erdmann” is still alive at Paramount, TheWrap has learned, but with some key changes in housekeeping.

Jack Nicholson is no longer attached to star as an errant father to a joyless daughter, despite reports to the contrary on Wednesday, one insider familiar with the project said. Kristen Wiig is still attached to star as the daughter, career-driven until her dad teaches her chaotic lessons about what matters most in life.

Lisa Cholodenko (“Olive Kitteridge,” “The Kids Are All Right”) is now stepping up to direct the project in addition to writing the adaptation — a role she took this Spring after former producing team Lena Dunham and Jenni Konner dropped out.

Nicholson spent a long time on the fence during early development, which would have brought him out of an 8-year movie hiatus. He last appeared in the 2010 James L. Brooks comedy “How Do You Know,” opposite Reese Witherspoon and Paul Rudd.

Wiig will also serve as producer. Representatives for Nicholson and Paramount did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Maren Ade directed the original, which became Germany’s entry and subsequent nominee for the Best Foreign Language Oscar. It starred Peter Simonischek and Sandra Hüller as father and daughter.

News of Cholodenko’s escalated duties on “Erdmann” was first reported by Deadline Hollywood.

Comments