California Dreamin’: Iconic Mama Cass Biopic ‘My Mama, Cass’ Hits Active Development

The vibrant, sun-soaked melodies of 1960s Laurel Canyon are set to return to the big screen. In a major announcement for the independent film community, Veritas Entertainment has officially packaged and moved into active development on My Mama, Cass, the definitive biographical feature film about the legendary Cass Elliot. For filmmakers and artisans who specialize in period-accurate world-building, this project represents one of the most exciting creative prospects of the 2026 production season.

This is not your traditional “rise-and-fall” band biopic. Based on the 2024 bestselling memoir by Elliot’s daughter, Owen Elliot-Kugell, the film is being described as an intimate, mother-daughter story that explores the woman behind the "Mama Cass" persona. Following the massive success of their Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, Veritas Entertainment is once again diving into the counterculture era to tell the story of a gifted, outspoken singer who refused to be defined by the industry's rigid standards.

A Powerhouse Creative Team Takes the Reins

Leading the cast is Emmy and BAFTA Award winner Jessica Gunning, whose breakout performance in Baby Reindeer captivated global audiences. Gunning is set to portray Cass Elliot, capturing both her powerhouse vocals and her role as the "connector" of the Los Angeles music scene. The screenplay is being penned by acclaimed novelist and screenwriter Emma Forrest, known for her sharp emotional depth and ability to handle complex legacies.

The production is led by partners Alan Gasmer and Peter Jaysen of Veritas Entertainment. Their involvement suggests a high-pedigree production with a focus on narrative authenticity and musical excellence. While a director has not yet been officially named, the project is currently being shopped to major buyers and financiers, with industry giants like Netflix and Sony already expressing significant interest.

Production Outlook: Laurel Canyon to London

As a project entering Early Development, the timeline is currently aimed at a late 2026 production start. Because the film focuses heavily on the authentic "Laurel Canyon sound" and Cass’s home—which served as a hub for artists like Joni Mitchell and Crosby, Stills & Nash—extensive location scouting is anticipated in Los Angeles, California. Additionally, because Cass Elliot famously spent her final days in London, production is expected to utilize filming hubs in the United Kingdom to recreate the iconic Palladium performances.

For crew members, this film offers a masterclass in 1960s aesthetic. From the costume designers tasked with recreating Cass’s trailblazing fashion to the production designers rebuilding the bohemian interiors of 1960s Hollywood, the project will require top-tier talent across all departments.

Get on the Call Sheet with ProductionList.com

For the thousands of craftspeople who bring these stories to life, staying informed during the development phase is the best way to secure a position. High-profile biopics like My Mama, Cass tend to fill their key department head roles quickly.

At ProductionList.com, we provide our members with the real-time data needed to get ahead of the trades. From confirmed production office addresses to direct contact emails for casting directors and producers, we bridge the gap between you and your next major credit. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the crew that brings "Monday, Monday" and "California Dreamin'" back to life. Subscribe today and get instant access to the My Mama, Cass project tracking and contact list. Your next big career move starts here.

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