In 2019, rumors circulated that Shia LaBeouf and Mel Gibson would be featured in a new movie about the affluent Ashkenazi Jewish noble banking Rothschild family. The project, which was said to delve into the mysterious and secretive world of one of the wealthiest families in history, was met with excitement by fans.
However, since the initial announcement, there have been few or no updates regarding the status of the film, causing many to wonder: What happened to Gibson’s Rothschild movie? The project was supposed to be helmed by Tetris director Jon S. Baird.
Speculation has been rife concerning the causes of the apparent delay or possible demise of the project. The movie’s title and subject matter caused controversy then, and Gibson was forced to deny any link between Rothchild and the wealthy Jewish banking dynasty of the same name.
Having said that, a Gibson representative claimed that the film had no connection whatsoever to the Rothschild family.
What Happened to Mel Gibson’s Rothschild Family Film with Shia LaBeouf?
Mel Gibson and Shia LaBeouf were reportedly set to star in Rothchild, a dark comedy dubbed “a dark comedy about New York’s super rich”, according to Variety’s 2019 report.
Becket Rothchild, played by the Even Stevens actor, was said to be the protagonist of the story, which revolved around his scheme to reclaim his birthright after being expelled from his affluent family. Director Jon S. Baird was set to helm the film and Gibson was said to be attached to assume the role of Becket’s grandfather.
According to an article in The Times, there was an uproar when word leaked about Gibson’s reported involvement in the project. The Jewish rights group, The Campaign Against Antisemitism, responded as follows:
“Mel Gibson’s vile racist comments about Jews make his casting in this role utterly abhorrent.”
In 2019, Gibson’s publicist, Alan Nierob, told The Daily Beast that the movie project had nothing to do with the Rothschilds and was “completely unrelated”.
“I’m told this film is about a fictional family [hence the name ‘Rothchild’] vs the Rothschild family to which you are referring, completely unrelated to your premise and angle.”
Nevertheless, it seems that the film project is no longer moving forward. The Hollywood Reporter was informed in 2020 by HanWay Films, the company that held the film’s rights, confirming that Rothchild was
“No longer happening”.
Given Gibson and LaBeouf’s reputations as gifted and diverse performers, their collaboration seemed destined for success if the film was able to secure a major theatrical release.
Jacob Rothschild, Member of the Banking Family, Dies At 87
We learned from the NY Times that the philanthropist, financier, and scion of the Rothschild banking family, Jacob Rothschild (4th Baron Rothschild), passed away at the age of 87. He was involved in a number of philanthropic and charitable endeavors and held prominent positions in business, finance, and British public life.
Beginning his career at the family bank NM Rothschild & Sons, he left in 1980 to co-found several businesses, one of which was J. Rothschild Assurance Group, which is now St. James’ Place. Among his prominent positions in the nation’s arts and philanthropy were chair of the National Gallery board of trustees from 1985 to 1991 and chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund from 1992 to 1998.
He actively participated in the restoration of Somerset House in London, and in 2002, he became a member of the Order of Merit (OM), which honors exceptional contributions to the arts, literature, sciences, and education.
Regardless of what lies ahead, one thing is certain: Jacob Rothschild’s influence on the financial world is unlikely to fade away anytime soon. His contributions to banking, philanthropy, and society in general have created a lasting legacy that will continue to motivate generations to come.
