Lifetime has announced the greenlight and casting of Billy Zane for an upcoming original movie based on the true story of Larry Ray. The film, which is yet to be titled, will explore Ray’s disturbing influence over his daughter’s friends during his time living with her at Sarah Lawrence College.
Billy Zane will portray Larry Ray in this gripping story of emotional, psychological, and physical abuse. Under Ray’s spell, the students become entangled in a web of manipulation as he preys on their vulnerabilities and insecurities. False memories of childhood trauma are unearthed by Ray to isolate them further from their families. As the cult-like control intensifies, Ray expands his reach to target their friends and family, subjecting them to emotional, financial, sexual abuse, and mental manipulation.
Production for the film is set to begin this month under the direction of Elisabeth Rohm, an alumna of Sarah Lawrence College herself. Rohm will also serve as executive producer alongside Stephen Tolkin, Dan Abrams, Rachel Stockman, Jonathan Baruch, and Howard Braunstein.
This project marks Rohm’s fourth directorial role with Lifetime. Her previous works include “Girl in the Basement,” her debut as a director; “Switched Before Birth” in 2021; and “Girl in Room 13” in 2022.
Further casting announcements for the untitled Larry Ray movie are expected soon. The film is slated to premiere as part of Lifetime’s Ripped from the Headlines summer lineup.
Represented by Paradigm and Canopy Media Partners with legal counsel provided by Jared Bloch, Billy Zane brings his talent and presence to illuminate this chilling true story on screen.
