Sacha Baron Cohen has seemingly quit the upcoming Freddie Mercury biopic.
One of the most charismatic frontmen of his generation, Freddie Mercury broke countless barriers. A homosexual rock icon, the singer – born Farrokh Bulsara – boasted Parsee heritage at a time when 'Love Thy Neighbour' was still a staple of British television.
Sadly passing away in 1991, the life of Freddie Mercury has been optioned for the cinematic treatment. Sacha Baron Cohen was lined up to play the Queen frontman, but according to reports the actor has pulled out of the movie.
Deadline report (via Uncut) that creative differences have emerged between Sacha Baron Cohen and Queen. Whilst the actor wants to explore the grittier aspects of Mercury's life, his remaining band mates are eager to keep the film as a PG rated release.
Seemingly, Queen are taking a hands-on approach to the venture. The band reportedly disagreed with 'The King's Speech' director Tom Hooper taking charge of the project, whilst Queen also turned down 'Frost / Nixon' scriptwriter Peter Morgan.
A shame…
Here's 'Killer Queen'.
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