Kristina Roberts
Taking on the role of someone as powerful and unforgettable as Janis Joplin is no small task. For Shailene Woodley, this journey has been one of the most inspiring yet nerve-wracking experiences of her career. The 33-year-old actress, known for her performances in The Fault in Our Stars and Big Little Lies, is all set to portray the rock icon in the much-awaited film Janis Joplin: Get It While You Can. But for her, the most difficult part hasn’t been the acting—it’s been the singing.
Shailene admits that performing Joplin’s songs has pushed her to her limits. “Singing is very scary. It’s very vulnerable,” she confessed, expressing how deeply emotional this role has been for her. Those words show how seriously she takes her craft. Janis Joplin wasn’t just a singer; she was a storm of raw emotion, grit, and freedom. To bring her back to life on screen means diving deep into that wild, unfiltered energy that defined Joplin’s short yet powerful life.
The film, which has been in development for seven long years, is finally moving forward after receiving a California film tax credit. This has been a major push for the project, which aims to give audiences a close and emotional look into Janis Joplin’s journey—from her rise to fame to the personal battles she faced behind the spotlight.
Janis Joplin was one of the most iconic rock and blues singers of the 1960s. She became famous for her soulful voice, electric stage presence, and songs that expressed deep pain and passion. Sadly, she passed away at just 27 years old in 1970. Her life was short, but her music continues to inspire millions even today. Bringing such a legend to life requires not just talent, but also courage—and Shailene seems to have plenty of both.
Speaking about her excitement for the project, Woodley shared earlier, “I have a feeling Janis would be smiling ear to ear, zipping down the PCH in her psychedelic Porsche knowing her story is bringing opportunities and funding to the city and people that held so much significance to her.” These heartfelt words show how much respect and love she has for the woman she’s portraying. For Shailene, this isn’t just another movie—it’s a way to celebrate a woman who lived freely, loved deeply, and sang fearlessly.
During her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Shailene shared that the film has been a long time in the making—almost seven years. “She’s such a groovy chick, man. She really brought the light to this planet in a really singular way,” Woodley said with a smile. She also revealed that the team has managed to gather authentic clothing and accessories from Joplin’s era, adding, “We have the outfits. Everything.” That attention to detail is what makes the film even more special. It’s not just about copying Janis’s looks—it’s about capturing her soul.
One of the most exciting parts of the project is Shailene’s collaboration with musician and producer Linda Perry. Perry, who is best known as the lead singer of 4 Non Blondes and for writing hit songs for artists like Pink and Christina Aguilera, has been working closely with Shailene to bring Joplin’s music and spirit to life. “She is an incredible songwriter, singer, and music producer, and she and I have been working very closely for a few years now,” Shailene said, praising Perry’s creativity and guidance.
This partnership between Woodley and Perry promises something extraordinary. Joplin’s voice was raw and unique—it wasn’t about perfection, but about emotion. With Perry’s musical expertise and Woodley’s dedication, fans can expect a film that feels deeply real and heartfelt.
While there is still no official release date for Janis Joplin: Get It While You Can, excitement around the project continues to grow. Many fans have waited for years to see a movie that does justice to Joplin’s incredible yet tragic life. The film is expected to explore her childhood dreams, her struggles with fame, her love for music, and the pressures that came with being one of the most groundbreaking women in rock history.
Over the years, several famous actresses were once attached to Janis Joplin biopic projects that never got completed. Stars like Amy Adams, Zooey Deschanel, Pink, Melissa Etheridge, Brittany Murphy, and Renee Zellweger were all linked to Joplin-inspired films at different times. But none of those projects made it to the big screen. That makes Shailene’s version even more special—it’s finally happening.
What makes this story so moving is not just the subject, but also Shailene’s connection to it. She has always been an actress who values authenticity. From her roles in emotional dramas to her environmental activism, she is known for staying true to herself. Taking on Janis Joplin means channeling that same honesty—because Joplin herself was never fake or filtered. She sang her truth, no matter how painful or messy it was.
As Shailene steps into this role, she is not only honoring Joplin’s memory but also inspiring a new generation to embrace their individuality. In today’s world, where so much is about perfection, Joplin’s story reminds us that beauty often lies in imperfection—in being real, raw, and free.
It’s also touching to think about how Janis Joplin, who once struggled to fit in, is now being celebrated by an actress who deeply admires her courage. Perhaps that’s why this film feels so personal for Shailene. It’s not just a performance—it’s a tribute.
In the end, Janis Joplin: Get It While You Can is shaping up to be more than just a movie. It’s a celebration of art, vulnerability, and the power of music to heal and connect people. Shailene Woodley’s emotional honesty, paired with Linda Perry’s musical genius, might just give the world the Janis Joplin story it has long been waiting for.
As fans wait eagerly for the film’s release, one thing is certain—this project is filled with heart. And maybe, somewhere up there, Janis Joplin really is smiling ear to ear, proud that her story continues to light up the world through another fearless woman’s voice.
