Angelina Jolie’s preparation to portray opera legend Maria Callas in the upcoming biopic Maria showcased her commitment to mastering the role, including seven months of vocal training with renowned coach Eric Vetro.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Vetro detailed Jolie’s journey from having no singing experience to delivering a performance worthy of the legendary soprano. “She started from ground zero. She had never sung before,” Vetro revealed. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone make such a huge difference from the first day to the last day.”
The actress, known for her fearless approach to complex roles, initially felt “nervous and shy about singing,” according to Vetro. However, her dedication and desire to honor Callas’ legacy drove her progress. “Her desire to do a great job overrode anything that might stop her,” he said.
Opera training presented unique challenges, which Vetro described as requiring intense musicality. “It ebbs and flows. It goes a little faster here, a little slower there. To do that, you have to really be musical,” he explained.
One transformative moment during their sessions confirmed Jolie’s readiness for the role. “It was the most thrilling day of all our time spent together,” Vetro recalled. “I thought, ‘This is it. She can do it. She’s the perfect person to play this role.’”
As a devoted fan of Maria Callas, Vetro found the experience particularly moving. “She was one of my favorite opera singers, and it really touched me that Angelina was able to bring her to life like this,” he concluded.
Maria is set to bring Callas’ legacy to a new generation, with Jolie’s dedication ensuring an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of the opera icon.
