Daisy Ridley to Star as Bertha Benz, Directed by Emmy-Nominated Eloise Singer

Ridley will play Bertha Benz, the wife of Motorwagen inventor Karl Benz, who embarked on the world's first road trip in 1888.

Daisy Ridley will star in a new virtual reality experience telling the untold VR story of Bertha Benz, and later serve as an executive producer when the project is expanded into a feature film, The Hollywood Reporter can exclusively reveal.

Emmy-nominated Eloise Singer will direct the project, from London-based Singer Studios, about the wife of Karl Benz, inventor of the Motorwagen. Bertha embarked on the world’s first road trip in 1888, showcasing the car to the skeptical public and press but ultimately making history and paving the way for the age of innovation.

Ridley, of Star Wars fame, will play the titular role. She’ll join Singer and Lesley Paterson as executive producers when Mrs Benz is made into a film and graphic novel series.

“Bertha’s determination and courage are incredibly inspiring,” Ridley said. “It’s been such a privilege to step into her world and help tell her story. I hope audiences are as moved by her journey as I was while working on this project.”

Singer told THR: “Bertha’s journey is a powerful example of courage and ingenuity, yet it’s largely overlooked in history. I was drawn to her determination — not only to challenge societal norms but also to prove the potential of an extraordinary invention. Mrs Benz reveals how one person’s tenacity and willingness to defy expectations helped shape the future. I hope this story inspires others to trust their instincts and take risks, even in the face of doubt.”

Paterson added: “As a woman who has overcome so many obstacles in my life and been a trailblazer of my own in many ways, I couldn’t help but be drawn to this incredible story. Not only that but to be a part of such a powerhouse female led team doing it, I had no choice but to come aboard!”

Mrs Benz will invite audiences to step into Bertha’s shoes, explore her workshop and assemble the engine that reshaped transportation forever. The VR experience first premiered at the Venice Film Festival and SXSW, before Ridley was attached.

Mrs Benz: The Untold Story of Bertha Benz will be released on Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3 on March 7.

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