Jared Leto Set to Star in and Produce Film About a Retired Professor-Turned-Cat Burglar
Jared Leto is set to star in and produce an untitled film that is inspired by the true story of a retired professor-turned-cat burglar suspect named Dr. Lawrence Gray.
The film is written by Andy Bellin (Lovelace) and it’s an adaptation of the article “The Talented Dr. Gray” by Steve Kroft and Howard L. Rosenberg, which was first published on Graydon Carter’s Airmail in 2022.
The story centers on Gray, “a retired political science professor from John Cabot University, who is charged with orchestrating a sophisticated theft operation involving high-value jewels and art pieces.
“Known for his impeccable manners and elite social connections, Gray allegedly stole over $1 million worth of valuables from homes in five states.
“His victims included acquaintances he met through social events, such as weddings and fundraisers, and notably, his longtime lover, Jacqueline Quillen, a prominent figure in Washington D.C. society.”
It’s explained that Gray’s criminal activities began in 2004 “when he started a relationship with Quillen, the granddaughter of famed investment banker and physicist Alfred Lee Loomis.
“Despite their close relationship and shared social life, Gray allegedly stole from Quillen and her affluent friends over the course of a decade.
“His legal troubles escalated after Quillen’s son, Parker, sued Gray in 2020, accusing him of stealing numerous valuables. Quillen passed away later that year, and the lawsuit was settled confidentially, with Gray making a payment to her estate.
“Maintaining his innocence, Gray claims that he was persecuted by Quillen’s family due to their disapproval of his relationship with her.”
The film will be set in London, where Leto’s version of Dr. Gray “woos his way into the homes of English bluebloods and international ambassadors, and sets his sights on relics of the Great British Empire.”
Berlin said in a statement: “The moment I read the article, I knew this would make an incredible movie. The real hook here is the psychology of Dr. Gray and the fantastic twists that come along with it.
“This story explores the perceived perfect lives of privilege and glamour, which is actually a world of cunning, subterfuge and deception. We’re so lucky that Jared has the same drive for such complex characters; and that h.wood Media sees what we see in this project.”
Leto will produce alongside Emma Ludbrook (WeCrashed, Tron: Ares), through their production company Paradox, in partnership with Scoop Wasserstein’s Scoop Productions (The Outfit, The Watcher).
Source: Deadline