The iconic American restaurant chain Hooters is set to become the subject of a new buddy-comedy film, with some of its original founders actively involved in its development. The movie, currently in the early stages of pre-production, will explore the "real events" behind the creation of the 'breastaurant' chain.
The narrative follows best friends Ted and Lenny as they establish their now-famous eatery. Their venture faces peril when it is reportedly jeopardized by the U.S. government. A key plot point involves Ted encountering Diane through a television commercial, leading him and Lenny to recruit her as the first Hooters Girl in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Edward Droste, one of Hooters' co-founders, is serving as a producer and co-authoring the screenplay. Jon Rosenbaum, known for directing "Benchwarmers 2: Breaking Balls," is attached to direct the project. Filming is slated to commence in November in the Tampa and Clearwater areas of Florida, the original location of the first Hooters restaurant, which opened in 1983.
"I think people are going to enjoy watching how we were really just some guys who didn’t know what we were doing, but had a great time doing it," Droste stated in a press release. He added, "And of course, our world-famous Hooters Girls are the real stars. It’s time to deliver a taste of our big-hearted culture and famous humor to the world."
Rosenbaum commented on the story's potential, remarking, "From the moment I first learned the Hooters origin story, I knew it would make an incredible movie. It’s the perfect combination of a hilarious buddy comedy and an inspiring biopic for a beloved American brand: Two lifelong friends with no idea what they’re getting themselves into, a crazy idea they’re willing to bet everything on, and a wild journey that culminates in the creation of something bigger than they could ever have imagined. It’s not at all what people will be expecting – and it’s mostly true! I can’t wait to bring this story to life."
Hooters, a casual dining and sports bar chain, is recognized for its chicken wings and its distinctive waitstaff. The company was founded by six individuals: Lynn D. Stewart, Gil DiGiannantonio, Ed Droste, Billy Ranieri, Ken Wimmer, and Dennis Johnson.
Currently, the Hooters chain operates approximately 200 locations across the United States and an additional 60 international sites in countries including Japan, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.