• Daisy Ridley is starring in a new film
  • It challenged her physically in every way
  • HERE is the scoop

She’d already landed the starring role — but there was one more title that came later. Based on the true story of Trudy Ederle's quest to conquer the English Channel, Ridley not only stars in this gripping Disney film but also steps up as an executive producer, bringing a fresh perspective to this historic achievement.

Diving into the Deep End with Daisy Ridley

Daisy Ridley, the 29-year-old star known for her role in the 'Star Wars' saga, has now taken on the waters, portraying Trudy Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel. But Ridley's involvement didn't stop at just acting.

Initially not an executive producer, Ridley's keen insights and suggestions about the script, especially the portrayal of the relationship between Trudy and her sister Meg, saw her role on the project expand.

Ridley wanted to ensure the film not only highlighted the physical challenges Ederle faced but also the emotional support and bond between the Ederle sisters, set against the backdrop of 1920s New York.

'Young Woman and the Sea' is more than just a sports movie; it's a narrative about perseverance, sisterly love, and breaking the gender barriers in a male-dominated sport.

"I wanted to really punch [up] that relationship between the two sisters," Daisy said, as well as paint a fuller picture of what immigrant life was like at the time.

"There were certain things that I thought would be interesting to see more in the script. But really, it began with me talking about the relationship with the sisters and what I wanted that to feel like onscreen."

Director Joachim Rønning and producer Jerry Bruckheimer praised Ridley's dedication and leadership, noting her hands-on approach and resilience during the challenging filming in the English Channel and the Black Sea.

Ridley's transformation into Ederle involved grueling swimming training, facing cold waters, and embodying the spirit of a woman determined to achieve her dreams against all odds.

A testament to her strength

"She’s a force of nature," Rønning said about Ridley. "She really got into it, and she was in the water. We were filming for weeks, and she would never complain, her lips blue."

He added, "In my mind she's a perfect Trudy, fighting for something you believe in so strongly."

Ridley's journey from actress to executive producer on this project reflects her growth in the industry and her commitment to telling stories that inspire and empower.

Her advice to young women and aspiring leaders? Find like-minded individuals who support your dreams and work together towards achieving them.

'Young Woman and the Sea' is not just Ridley's tribute to Trudy Ederle's historic swim but also a testament to her own journey in Hollywood, proving that with determination and the right support, any barrier can be overcome.

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Look out for the film! It should be Daisy Ridley as you have never seen her before. 

'Young Woman and the Sea' is set to make waves in select theaters on May 31, promising audiences a story of courage, ambition, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood.