Into the Rabbit Hole: Sabrina Carpenter’s First Major Studio Lead

By Kyra Greene

Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter is expanding her creative empire, officially stepping into her first major studio lead role — and she’s doing it in unmistakably Sabrina fashion. Universal Pictures has tapped the Grammy-nominated artist to both star in and produce an untitled original musical inspired by Alice in Wonderland, marking a defining new chapter in her evolution from chart-topping performer to full-fledged multi-hyphenate.

This isn’t a studio-built vehicle — the idea started with Carpenter herself. After pitching the concept to Universal over a year ago, the project gained momentum, eventually landing Lorene Scafaria (Hustlers, Succession) as writer and director. Joining them is legendary producer Marc Platt, whose musical pedigree spans Wicked, La La Land, and beyond. Together, the trio signals a daring new take on Lewis Carroll’s surreal classic — one that blends theatrical spectacle with Carpenter’s sharpened artistic point of view.

Rather than revisit familiar interpretations, this adaptation is expected to push into something more vibrant, bold, and current — a Wonderland reframed through modern sensibilities. With Carpenter shaping the film both in front of and behind the lens, the project promises a musical experience that merges pop culture, fantasy, and emotional storytelling in a way only she can deliver. Production is gearing up soon, positioning the film as one of Universal’s most anticipated musical bets.