A forthcoming Freddie Mercury biopic could star comedian Sacha Baron Cohen as the Queen frontman.
Freddie Mercury broke down barriers in rock music. The first Asian rock star to reach any form of success, the iconic Queen singer was also a homosexual in the macho world of stadium rock.
Sadly dying of AIDs in 1991, the singer left behind a stunning legacy. Queen remain one of Britain’s most popular groups, with their ‘Greatest Hits’ being turned into the hit musical ‘We Will Rock You’.
The rights to Freddie Mercury’s life story were snapped up by director Peter Morgan who aims to shoot a biopic. Now in an unusual twist it seems that comedian Sacha Baron Cohen has entered the frame as a potential star.
The comedian is best known for starring roles in ‘Borat’ and ‘Da Ali G Movie’ but could now star in the forthcoming biopic. Deadline has reported that the British star is set to play Freddie Mercury.
The magazine claims to have details of the forthcoming film, which will focus on the first half of Queen’s career. Ending with the band’s triumphant performance at Live Aid in 1985, the film ignores the star’s plight with AIDs.
One of rock’s most iconic vocalists, it remains unclear if the original recordings will be used. According to Deadline a rights package has been organised, with hits such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ set to appear.
However rumours remain that Sacha Baron Cohen will record his own vocal parts for the film, in the manner of Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash in ‘Walk The Line’.
Cohen wouldn’t be the first to fill Freddie Mercury’s role in Queen – the remaining members toured with Paul Rodgers until parting company last year.
The new Freddie Mercury biopic is set to begin shooting later this year.
