After an extensive worldwide casting call, Netflix announced today that actor, dancer, and model Ava Michelle will make her feature film debut in the lead role of its upcoming live-action comedy Tall Girl. Michelle, who is 6′ 1″ tall, will play Jodi, a 16-year-old who must embrace what makes her different and be proud to stand out, not fit in.
“It was essential for us to find an actor to portray our lead who can speak to the challenges and lessons that Jodi experiences from a very personal place of authenticity,” said director Nzingha Stewart. “Ava’s ability to beautifully and uniquely showcase those attributes stood out to us in a way that we believe audiences will connect with. Tall Girl showcases that embracing the very qualities that make you different is what allows you to overcome anything.“
Other cast members include Griffin Gluck (American Vandal, Big Time Adolescence) who co-star as Jack Dunkleman, Jodi’s best friend. Luke Eisner (The Goldbergs), who is making his feature film debut, will star as Stig, an equally tall Swedish foreign exchange student.
Sabrina Carpenter (The Hate U Give) stars as Harper, Jodi’s older sister. Paris Berelc (Alexa & Katie) stars as Liz, the unconventional best friend of Jodi’s tormentor. Rounding out Jodi’s family is Steve Zahn (War for the Planet of the Apes) as Richie Kreyman, Jodi’s manic and anxious dad with a big heart and Angela Kinsey (The Office) as Helaine Kreyman, Jodi’s mom who struggles to connect with her.
Production has begun in New Orleans with Stewart (Grey’s Anatomy) at the helm with a script by Sam Wolfson (Finding Carter).
